July 8, 2025 - There have been rumours about Lionel Messi for a long time. Many different things are being said. Now, the French media outlet 'L’Équipe' has shared some new updates.

Let us first talk about the old rumours. ESPN Argentina journalist Esteban Edul had earlier said that when Messi’s contract with Inter Miami ends in December this year, he might return to Europe, possibly to his old club, Barcelona, in Spain. The reason? Edul said that Messi wants to train and prepare himself at a European club before the 2026 World Cup. 

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, who is close to Messi, said that footballer is not sure if he will play in the 2026 World Cup. Because of this, it is also not clear where Messi will play before the World Cup. He may stay at Inter Miami, go back to Europe, or move to another club.

But now, the BBC has reported that Messi has agreed to continue at Inter Miami and that talks between both sides are going well.

L’Équipe has reported that Saudi club Al Hilal wants to sign Messi. Talks between Messi and the club are already happening. Al Hilal said they will do whatever it takes to bring the 38-year-old star to Saudi Arabia.

This is not the first time Saudi Arabia has tried to get Messi. In 2023, after Messi left PSG, he received an offer from a Saudi club, but he chose Inter Miami instead. Now Al Hilal is trying again and has been speaking with the player for several weeks.

Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami ends in December. So far, there is no official news about a new contract. Messi has won two trophies with the club but has not won a major title yet.

Al Hilal is one of the top clubs in Saudi Arabia. The team has won many trophies, including the Asian Champions League. Big players like Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino also play for Al Hilal. The club is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s old rival, plays for Al Nassr, another Saudi club. If Messi joins Al Hilal, fans may get to see the Messi vs Ronaldo rivalry once again — this time in Saudi Arabia.

According to L’Équipe, the salary offer from Al Hilal is not yet known. But Saudi Arabia wants to bring Messi as part of its plan for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which it hopes to host. What Messi will decide — only time will tell.