It's Not Barça: The Team That Would Do Everything Possible to Sign Lionel Messi

In a move that could send shockwaves through the global football landscape, Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Ahli is reportedly negotiating the signing of Lionel Messi for 2026. French sports daily L'Equipe has confirmed the audacious interest, stating that the Saudi club is prepared to do "everything they can" to secure the services of the Argentine superstar.

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This ambitious pursuit highlights the growing financial power and increasing aspirations of the Saudi Pro League, which has already attracted a host of high-profile players from Europe. Al-Ahli, in particular, has demonstrated its intent by building a formidable squad, and the potential addition of Messi would undoubtedly elevate their status even further.

Al-Ahli is not a newcomer to success, as they are the current champions of Asia, a title that underscores their competitiveness and drive for excellence. This victory in the AFC Champions League provides a compelling sporting project to offer a player of Messi's caliber, beyond just the financial incentives. The club's ambition to compete at the highest level is clear, and bringing in a player of Messi's stature would align perfectly with their objective to dominate both domestically and continentally.

The current Al-Ahli roster already boasts an impressive array of international talent, having successfully lured several stars from top European leagues. Their squad includes renowned players such as Riyad Mahrez, the skillful Algerian winger, and Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino, both known for their attacking prowess. In midfield, they feature the commanding presence of Franck Kessié, who brings strength and experience. Defensively, they have solid players like Merih Demiral, a robust Turkish international center-back, and in goal, the reliable Edouard Mendy. Furthermore, reports indicate that Ivan Toney is also part of their formidable attacking lineup, adding another dimension to their offensive capabilities. This existing collection of talent provides a strong foundation for Messi to potentially join, allowing him to link up with familiar faces from Europe's elite.

Messi's contract with Inter Miami is set to expire in December 2025. While Inter Miami has expressed optimism about extending his stay, and Messi himself has indicated a desire to finish his career in Miami, the reported aggressive pursuit by Al-Ahli suggests a serious challenge to those plans. The Saudi Pro League offers a different schedule, potentially more aligned with Messi's goal of maintaining peak fitness for the 2026 World Cup, an event he has consistently stated is a major personal objective.

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Should Al-Ahli succeed in their bid, it would mark another monumental transfer for the Saudi league, reigniting the iconic rivalry between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on Saudi soil. The potential move would undoubtedly dominate headlines and further solidify the Saudi Pro League's position as a major destination for the world's top footballing talent. All eyes will be on the coming months as negotiations unfold, to see if Al-Ahli can indeed pull off this monumental transfer coup.