Lionel Messi Makes Transfer Decision After Jaw-Dropping £1.2bn Offer

Lionel Messi has reportedly turned down a staggering £1.2 billion (€1.4 billion) offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, opting to stay with Inter Miami in MLS. This decision, revealed by Al-Ittihad president Anmar Al Haili, underscores Messi's priorities beyond financial gain, favoring family stability and football legacy in the U.S.[3]

Al Haili disclosed contacting Messi post his PSG contract, presenting the world-record deal that dwarfed all football benchmarks. Despite the enormity—enough to lure stars like Ronaldo, Benzema, Kanté, and Neymar—Messi rejected it "for the sake of his family."[3] Saudi Arabia's aggressive push aimed to dominate global football, but Messi's choice highlighted lifestyle over luxury.

Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has revolutionized the club, securing silverware like the MLS Cup, elevating league visibility, and extending his contract through 2028.[3] His impact continues amid Inter Miami's 2026 roster boosts, including pursuits of talents like Baltasar Rodriguez ($4.5M return) and MLS Next Pro prospect Dániel Pintér as their sixth signing.[1][5]

Challenges persist: Messi faces reported backlash at Miami, with teammate Gio Lo Celso deciding his future ahead of the 2026 World Cup.[2] A striker target, Timo Werner, slipped to rivals San Jose Earthquakes, though a Designated Player slot remains open.[6] Messi also met Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni to discuss World Cup plans, with Scaloni eager for his involvement in any role amid title defense prep.[4]

Messi's saga challenges norms: at 38, he prioritizes influence in MLS over Saudi riches, shaping football's growth while eyeing international glory. Inter Miami eyes supremacy, but transfer dynamics test their ambitions.[3]

(Word count: 298)