The Saudi Arabian government is reportedly in talks with Lionel Messi’s representatives to bring him to the Saudi Pro League this summer, offering a potential package worth $400m annually. The move follows Cristiano Ronaldo’s signing with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia last year. Talks are said to involve former Manchester City CEO Garry Cook, who heads up the Saudi league.
While Messi has been offered an extension by Paris Saint-Germain, it is not expected to be signed. The Saudi government is keen to establish itself as a destination club for top football talent and has fast-tracked development of the game under its modernising plan.
