Keylor Navas reveals talks with Lionel Messi after sealing surprise transfer to ex-PSG team-mate's boyhood club Newell's Old Boys

The veteran Costa Rica international goalkeeper has been a free agent since being released by Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024. He now finds himself in South America at 38 years of age and readying himself for a new challenge.

Former Real Madrid star Navas is delighted to have landed himself another contract, with advice from eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi being sought before agreeing a switch to Argentina. Navas said at his unveiling: “I knew about the club, its history, and the legends who played here. Before coming, I spoke to Messi, and he had nothing but positive things to say.”

Navas has already been introduced to a passionate fan base at Estadio Marcelo Bielsa and said of the venue that he will soon call home: “The reception was overwhelming—it gave me goosebumps. I had heard about the atmosphere here, but experiencing it first hand was something else.”

Newell’s president Ruben Capria has said of acquiring Navas’ vast trophy-winning know-how: “Keylor brings an extraordinary level of talent and experience that will elevate Newell's, our locker room, and Argentine football as a whole. His signing is a win for everyone.”

Navas won the Liga title and three Champions League crowns with Real Madrid, before landing 10 pieces of silverware at PSG. There has been talk of Messi, who is now plying his trade in MLS for Inter Miami, returning to his roots in Rosario before the day comes for his boots to be hung up for the final time.