But despite Petit’s claims, The Athletic reporter David Orseitns says Inter Miami are “extremely confident” they will be able to persuade Messi to sign an extension. Barcelona icon Lionel Messi ‘offered blockbuster’ transfer; decides ‘priority’ with ‘frontrunner’ named

The MLS side are also in talks with Argentinian midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who can also potentially affect the future of Messi. Despite the reports, staying in the United States in the same year as the World Cup would make sense for the player, but it would also be crucial for the league itself.

Lionel Messi’s spectacular strike also saw him equal an MLS record set by his former Barcelona teammate Thierry Henry.