Lionel Messi is now being linked with a transfer to Saudi Arabia, after Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr. Two clubs – Al-Hilal (Riyadh) and Al Itihad (Jedah) are the two clubs preparing to offer the Argentine a wage even higher than that which Ronaldo is on.
The Portugal international has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal worth €200 million including image rights. His wages alone come to around €75 million, which is still a huge number. And according to certain reports, Messi could be set for an even higher deal if he chooses to make the switch.
Lionel Messi has offers to move to Saudi Arabia next season
The Saudi Arabian government is expected to help the club financially in order to promote football in their country. And Al-Nassr’s biggest rivals could reignite the Messi vs Ronaldo clash for what could be a last time in club football, this summer.
The 35-year-old was also rumoured to have a solid offer from the MLS, with Inter Miami interested. However, he has not agreed anything with either club as of yet. According to Fabrizio Romano, the player has only had a verbal agreement with Paris Saint-Germain to extend his contract which runs out at the end of the 22/23 season.
A pay raise is expected for the PSG star, considering his financial contribution to the club. And considering the form Lionel Messi is in, he is perfectly placed to enjoy more time at the highest level of football before leaving for the Middle East – if he were to consider their bid.