Expert: Lionel Messi's Inter Milan future expected to be finalised 'soon'
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
(Credit: Imago)
Callum O'Connell
Tue 23 September 2025 9:30, UK
Lionel Messi looks set to snub talk about a return to European football in favour of extending his stay at Inter Miami beyond the end of the year.
That is according to former Man United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 38-year-old is happy at Inter Miami and an agreement is now “close”.
Messi‘s current deal is set to expire on 31 December, but with his performances showing no signs of slowing down, he plans to continue in the MLS.
Football Insider revealed in July that Saudi Pro League clubs want to sign Messi and reignite his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, but their “countless” attempts have failed.
There have also been suggestions of a return to Barcelona, where he has retained his God-like status among the supporters, but that is now unlikely.
Credit: Getty Images
Football Insider revealed in July that Messi is set to stay at Inter Miami following the arrival of his Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted it is good for the game if Messi can continue playing at his best level in the USA.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
“Messi’s in the ideal situation at his age over in Miami,” he told Football Insider.
“At 38, it’s brilliant that he’s still playing and performing at a high level, it’s the same as Ronaldo and it’s a credit to the way they’ve looked after themselves.
“He can still perform at a very high level, but the level of his opponents obviously plays a part.
“There’s no need for him to be sprinting around the pitch, he can conserve his energy and then change the game in smaller bursts which are far better than anybody else can do.
“You’ll suddenly see him score a magnificent goal, make a cutting pass or go on one of his dribbles.
“There had been a bit of talk about whether he could come back to Europe, but at this stage I think that’s pretty much off the cards.
“He’s happy over in Miami, and obviously they’re happy with him, so I’d expect that contract situation to be resolved soon because it works for everybody.
“I’m just happy to see that he and Ronaldo have found clubs where they can still show their ability even at their ages now, it’s wonderful.”
Messi now looks set to extend his stay in Miami to continue the fantastic displays he has shown so far, bringing new eyes to the sport in the USA.
Messi’s move to the MLS, alongside Ronaldo making the switch to the Saudi Pro League, has allowed to of the game’s all-time greats to continue thriving.
The World Cup-winner has scored 64 goals and provided 31 assists in 76 games for Miami, including 22 goals and 10 assists from just 22 MLS appearances this season.
Having made what is expected to be his final appearance on home soil for Argentina, a game in which he scored twice, the forward was met with emotional scenes from the crowd.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, has scored 97 goals and provided 20 assists in 110 games for Al-Nassr, and remains the face of the Saudi Pro League.
The Man United legend is in hot pursuit of his 1000th career goal, with his current tally at 945, and is likely to feature for Portugal at the World Cup in 2026.
For more Lionel Messi and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.