Report: Lionel Messi in Talks to Join Al Ahli
Messi weighs a massive Saudi stint: Al Ahli eyes the GOAT’s arrival to bolster league profile and reignite Ronaldo rivalry.
- Publish date: Monday، 07 July 2025 Reading time: 1 min read

Lionel Messi is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Pro League giants Al Ahli for a high-profile transfer once his Inter Miami contract expires in December 2025.
According to French publication L’Équipe, Al Ahli has already initiated negotiations involving Messi’s camp well ahead of winter.
Why Al Ahli Is Pushing Hard
Al Ahli, winners of the 2025 AFC Champions League, is looking to boost its global profile as Saudi Arabia gears up for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. With financial support from the Public Investment Fund, the club is prepared to offer a record-breaking contract; however, the exact financial details of the contract have not been revealed.
The pitch includes featuring alongside stars like Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez, and Ivan Toney.
What This Means for Messi
Messi’s arrival could reinforce the long-standing Messi–Ronaldo rivalry in Saudi football, given Ronaldo’s presence at Al Nassr. It would also reaffirm Saudi Arabia’s ongoing strategy of attracting elite global talent, following signings like Ronaldo, Benzema, and Neymar.
Despite Al Ahli’s advances, Inter Miami remains keen to extend Messi’s deal, as his influence on and off the pitch has been monumental, most recently leading them to new milestones, including participation in the Club World Cup.
If finalized, Messi’s move to Al Ahli would be a seismic shift, elevating the Saudi Pro League’s global status. Fans, pundits, and investors alike are watching closely as December approaches, and one of the sport’s most captivating chapters may be written in the Middle East.
This article was previously published on saudimoments. To see the original article, click here