Lionel Messi in line for sensational Barcelona return THIS YEAR with Inter Miami contract call set to trigger MLS transfer clause

The Argentine superstar is entering the final year of his current deal in Florida. Those terms do, however, include the option for a 12-month extension through 2026. The Herons are expected to keep the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner at Chase Stadium.

Messi has the next World Cup in his sights - as he looks to defend a global crown in the United States, Canada and Mexico – and remaining in America would help to make the process of reaching that tournament easier.

Agreeing to stay on in Miami would take Messi through two complete campaigns in MLS. That would see him cleared to make a loan move during the off-season. According to El Nacional, that could pave the way for steps to be retraced to Catalunya.

It is suggested that, in a bid to remain as sharp as possible in World Cup year, Messi could link up with Barca once the 2025 MLS season has come to a close. The likes of Thierry Henry and Robbie Keane secured loan moves to Premier League sides Arsenal and Aston Villa during their respective spells in Major League Soccer.

Barcelona have never hidden the fact that they would like to see Messi back at Camp Nou. A playing return was considered to be unlikely, given that the South American severed ties with them in 2021, but he may now get the chance to enhance a stunning record of 672 goals for the Liga giants.