Lionel Messi could make a sensational return to Barcelona in the January transfer window if Inter Miami don’t make the Eastern Conference playoffs, according to reports.
Messi has been keen to return to Barcelona since his departure to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. He admitted before his move to Inter Miami that he had held discussions with Barca, but the club’s financial restrictions made a move too complicated.
However, Barcelona’s financial situation has improved significantly in recent months, and the club is now reportedly able to afford a move for Messi.
Inter Miami are currently five points adrift of the playoffs with only three matches left, though they have at least one game in hand over the teams they need to leapfrog. The MLS regular season ends on October 21, at which point Messi’s season would be over if Miami miss the playoffs.
Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas has even hinted that he wouldn’t stand in Messi’s way if he could seal his dream return to Spain.
“We would never stand in Leo’s way if he wanted to return to Barcelona,” Mas said. “He is a legend of the game and deserves to be able to choose where he wants to play. However, we are also hopeful that he will stay with us and help us to build a successful team in Miami.”
A return to Barcelona would be a fitting end to Messi’s career at the club where he spent 17 years and won a record seven Ballon d’Or awards. He would also be able to help Barcelona, who are currently struggling in La Liga, to return to the top of the Spanish game.
According to a recent report from Diario AS, Barcelona are already in contact with Messi’s representatives and are confident that they can reach an agreement to bring him back to the club in January.
The report also claims that Messi is keen on a return to Barcelona and is willing to take a pay cut in order to make the move happen.
If Messi does return to Barcelona, it would be a major coup for the club. He is still one of the best players in the world, even at the age of 36, and would undoubtedly boost Barcelona’s chances of success in both La Liga and the Champions League.
However, it is important to note that this is still just a rumor. Messi has a contract with Inter Miami until 2025, and it is not clear whether he would actually be willing to leave the club so soon after joining.
Another factor to consider is Barcelona’s financial situation. While the club’s finances have improved in recent months, they are still not in great shape. If Messi does return, Barcelona will need to make sure that they can afford his wages without breaking the bank.
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