Lionel Messi, Inter Miami working on new deal to extend stay in MLS beyond 2025
Inter Miami remain optimistic that Lionel Messi will sign a new contract with the Major League Soccer club, as negotiations begin to extend his stay beyond the end of 2025.
Messi’s current deal is set to expire in December, but discussions are under way between the club, Major League Soccer officials, and the 38-year-old’s representatives. There is growing confidence across all parties that an agreement will be reached.
Veteran transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed Inter Miami's position. Romano also suggested the Argentina captain is open to continuing his American chapter, despite reports linking him to a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
🚨🇺🇸 EXCL: Inter Miami club sources’ position on Leo Messi’s future.
“Leo is under contract until the end of 2025. The reality is that both parties are interested in continuing the relationship”.
“The necessary steps are being taken with the right mindset to make it happen”. pic.twitter.com/DXXg2oru5wClub officials believe his ongoing presence is crucial — not only for Miami but also for the league’s visibility in the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Messi, who arrived in Florida in 2023, has become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 50 goals. His most recent came from a trademark free-kick during the Club World Cup against FC Porto. He featured in all four of Miami’s matches at the tournament.
🚨⚽️ 𝐆𝐎𝐀𝐋 | Inter Miami 2-1 Porto (Lionel Messi 54') pic.twitter.com/AQYSCVh9lN
Despite Messi’s efforts, Inter Miami exited the competition after a 4-0 quarter-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in front of more than 65,000 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Should he agree to terms, Messi is expected to see out his playing days in the US, with speculation mounting that he could also retire from international football after Argentina’s title defence at the 2026 World Cup.
Messi’s continued presence would be a significant asset to Major League Soccer, which has seen a notable rise in global interest and commercial appeal since his arrival.