Messi near multiyear Inter Miami extension through 2027

Lionel Messi is closing in on a multiyear contract extension with Inter Miami that would keep the 38 year old forward in Major League Soccer beyond next year's World Cup, multiple reports said Wednesday. The sides remain in late-stage talks with only a handful of details to resolve, and one news agency quoted a source saying an official announcement could come within two weeks.

Reports differ on whether the deal is already agreed. ESPN and other outlets described negotiations as nearing completion, with MLS approval likely the final step, while an AFP source said the clubs had reached an agreement and a formal announcement was imminent. Financial terms were not disclosed. One report suggested the extension could run at least through 2027.

Messi joined Inter Miami during the 2023 season on a two and a half year contract scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. Since arriving, he has had a transformative impact on the club and the league, helping Miami win the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters Shield. This season he has scored 20 goals in 21 MLS appearances and supplied 11 assists, placing him among the league leaders. League-only totals since 2023 have been reported as 41...