'I want to go to Europe now!' - Lionel Messi's World Cup-winning team-mate Thiago Almada reveals Champions League dream & ideal transfer destination as he confirms desire to leave MLS

The 22-year-old winger, who was part of the Albicelste's 2022 World Cup-winning squad alongside Messi, wants to leave MLS in the next transfer window, with La Liga his preferred next destination. The Atlanta United star also confirmed that Ajax were interested in his services, but a move to the Eredivisie is no longer on the cards.

Speaking to ESPN, the youngster said: "I want to go to Europe now. I would like to play in the Spanish Premier and La Liga. There was interest from Ajax, which could not happen. Let's see now."

Almada recently garnered praise from Argentina legend Juan Roman Riquelme. The 22-year-old has also been linked with a move to Riquelme's old club Boca Juniors, but he has his heart set on a new challenge in Europe at this stage of his career. "I saw what Roman said. Maybe later. I would love to play in the Champions League," he added.

Almada joined Atlanta United in 2022 and in his maiden season he appeared in 31 matches across all competitions, recording seven goals and seven assists. In 2023, he was named MLS Young Player of The Year for registering 11 goals and providing 16 assists in 31 league games as his team finished sixth in the Eastern Conference, eight places above Messi's Inter Miami.

The World Cup winner, who exhibited fine form in the recently concluded MLS season, will now aim to make it to the Argentina squad for the Copa America 2024, which will be held in the United States. Messi and Co will be the favourites to retain the trophy as they currently sit top of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings ahead of Uruguay.