Inter Miami confirm Lionel Messi deal

MLS side Inter Miami have confirmed the imminent signing of Lionel Messi on a free transfer.

Messi's future has been the centre of widespread speculation for a considerable period, and the rumours have continued to grow since Paris Saint-Germain announced his departure.

Barcelona were keen to bring Messi back to the club, while Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal reportedly made a lucrative offer.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Argentine confirmed in an interview with Mundo Deportivo and Sport that he would be signing for Inter Miami.

Messi said: "I made the decision to go to Miami. I still haven't closed it 100% and there are some things missing, but well, we decided to continue the journey there."

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— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) June 7, 2023

Following the interview, Inter Miami have now confirmed the signing of the 35-year-old via their social media channels.

The MLS franchise released a 32-second video to announce his arrival, referencing the interest from Barcelona and Al-Hilal.

Inter Miami's managing owner Jorge Mas also posted an image on Twitter of a figure wearing the club's shirt with 'Messi 10' on the back.

The Argentina international is expected to officially sign for the MLS club when his PSG contract expires at the end of this month.

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After making 778 and 75 appearances for Barcelona and PSG respectively, Messi is set to play his club football outside of Europe for the first time in his career.

There is a belief that Messi could make his debut for Inter Miami against Mexican side Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup on July 21.

The franchise, which is part-owned by David Beckham, is currently on the lookout for a new manager following the recent sacking of Phil Neville.

Having picked up just 15 points from their opening 16 games, Inter Miami are languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.