Football superstar Lionel Messi has chosen the United States as his next destination, marking his entry into American football. However, the details of the extensive efforts made by Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal to secure his signature remain unknown.
Following his departure from Paris Saint Germain, Messi became available in the transfer market. Several clubs expressed interest in signing the 35-year-old Argentine, including clubs from the English Premier League and the possibility of returning to his boyhood club, FC Barcelona.
Al Hilal, in particular, showed significant interest by making a generous offer to Messi. However, the situation changed when La Liga approved FC Barcelona’s financial plan, potentially allowing Messi to return to his former club. While Messi and his father expressed their desire to go back to the Camp Nou, he ultimately chose to join Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami, seeking the sun and beaches of South Florida.
There are reports that Al Hilal made a last-minute attempt to entice Messi with an offer of €1.5 billion for a three-year contract, equivalent to around €500 million per year for the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. Additionally, it is said that Al Hilal had private jets ready to transport Messi and his father from Paris and Barcelona, respectively, to Riyadh to finalize the deal.
