Lionel Messi could potentially play in the Premier League at the age of 38, driven by his desire for the World Cup.
Reports suggest the football icon is considering a loan move to a more competitive league to prepare for Argentina`s World Cup title defense next summer.
Inter Miami reportedly wants to extend Messi`s contract beyond its 2025 expiration.
However, even with a potential contract extension in Miami, the eight-time Ballon d`Or recipient might still opt for a temporary period with a top European team.
Sources in Argentina indicate that Messi seeks consistent high-level competition leading up to the 2026 World Cup hosted in America.
This suggests the former Barcelona forward could undertake a short-term loan spell.
David Beckham`s Inter Miami surprised many by qualifying for the Club World Cup in the USA.
Yet, during the tournament, Messi appeared notably frustrated when his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, convincingly defeated the MLS side 4-0 in the round of 16.
The four-time Champions League winner was even rumored by some observers to have attempted to strike former teammate Vitinha during the match.
Lionel Messi has never played for a club in England.
However, former Manchester City manager Mark Hughes claimed that Sheikh Mansour inquired about signing Messi on the very day the Emirati businessman finalized his £200 million club takeover in 2008.
It`s also understood that current Etihad boss Pep Guardiola was interested in reuniting with his former Barcelona player before Messi`s move to PSG in 2021.
Recent speculation in Spain has also hinted at a sentimental return to Barcelona for Messi.
However, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague considers this improbable, citing Messi`s strained relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta.
Therefore, a potential first-time spell in England could be an appealing option for the superstar who boasts 112 goals in 193 international appearances.
