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The Most Absurd Offer in Football: Saudi Arabia Put a Blank Check on the Table for Lionel Messi
Money wasn’t enough once… but the obsession is still alive. From Saudi Arabia, they insist they would do the unthinkable to land the greatest of all time.
A Value That Defies Age and Markets
Lionel Messi’s value is simply incalculable. At 38 years old, the greatest footballer of all time remains one of the most sought-after names on the planet, especially after leading Inter Miami to history with the club’s first Major League Soccer title.
Before his move to the United States — while Barcelona dreamed of an impossible return — the Argentine was also heavily linked with Saudi Arabian football, a league that had already succeeded in attracting stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo. However, despite the astronomical contracts offered by the Saudi Pro League, Messi prioritized sporting and family considerations, choosing Miami over money.
The Impossible Offer That Returns to the Spotlight
Far from giving up, Saudi Arabia remain convinced that Messi is the ultimate piece in their project. That was made clear by Anmar Al Haili, owner of Al Ittihad, who admitted he would be willing to go to extreme lengths to sign him.
“If Leo agrees to sign for Al Ittihad, I would offer him a contract where he could earn whatever he wants, for as long as he wants — even for life. Having Messi here, wearing our shirt, means nothing to me financially. I want Messi because he would be the greatest player in the history of football,” he said without hesitation.
A Previous Attempt and a Decision Already Made
This is not the first time Al Haili has tried to convince the Argentine. When Messi became a free agent after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the Saudi billionaire had already put a staggering proposal on the table.
“I offered him €1.4 billion per year, but he turned it down because his family preferred the United States. I respect that, and Al Ittihad will always have its doors open to him,” he revealed.
Today, the scenario appears even more distant. Messi renewed his contract with Inter Miami on October 23, and there are no real signs that he will explore the Saudi option. If he were ever to change course, FC Barcelona would likely be the only emotional destination — although, for now, it remains nothing more than a dream.
