'Remain together for many more years' - Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas reiterates plans for Lionel Messi to retire with MLS club

Miami are eager for Messi to play out the remainder of his career in South Beach, their owner reiterated in an interview with ESPN. Jorge Mas has repeatedly expressed his desire for Messi to continue his Miami tenure, with the Argentine's deal set to expire at the end of next season - if his club option is exercised.

Negotiations over a new deal are ongoing, but the club are reportedly optimistic about the eight time Ballon d'Or winner putting pen to paper.

The former Barcelona quartet of Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, all have the option to stay, Mas said. Alba penned a new deal earlier this year, committing his future to Miami through the 2027 season - although he is the youngest of the four.

The owner outlined his future plans for Messi.

"I previously said that my wish, my dream would be for the number 10 to inaugurate our new stadium in March," he said. "This is a decision that rests on Messi. We wish for Messi to finish his career here. I said a few months ago that we should have news in the summer about that but hopefully it will be as soon as possible. But I am optimistic because we have done everything possible for Leo to feel at home, to feel comfortable.

"I always said that he is a competitive animal, he wants to win. I hope we can raise many trophies together here at Inter Miami in the coming years. Here, we're just waiting to be able to give the fans the good news about Lionel Messi."

He also said that Suarez has the option to stay, long-term.

"In terms of Suarez and Busquets, it's up to them if they stay," he said. "He has such a heart of a footballer. Luis Suárez is extraordinary. He gives everything in that game. I joke with him about knee pain because I also have it, but I am old. I think his contribution to the club, to the locker room, what he represents, puts aside all the goals he has for Inter Miami, the assists, and what Luis participates in.

"We'll see what he wants to do, if he wants to do one more year or many more it's up to him if his body permits it. I think that's the question. I think that the issue with Luis Suárez is a physical one, not emotional."

The MLS side have enjoyed a gap in their schedule, but return to action with the opening match of the Club World Cup on June 14, where they will take on Egypt's Al Ahly.