In order to afford bringing Argentine legend Lionel Messi to the United States, Major League Soccer clubs have devised a creative solution: each team would contribute a share of Messi’s salary.
Messi’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in the summer, however he has the option to extend it by a year.
Meanwhile, if he decides to leave Parc des Princes, there will likely be a fierce battle to sign him for the upcoming campaign.
However, MLS clubs have proposed a one-of-a-kind structure that would see one of the greatest players of all time end up in the United States as the country prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup.
All 29 teams would commit to funding a percentage of Messi’s salary. He currently earns more than £900,000 per week before tax, according to French media.
The proposal was mooted in a meeting of club executives in February, according to a report in Sport, and is being justified on the basis that Messi’s presence in the league will bring huge commercial benefits to every team and, the clubs hope, see broadcasting income skyrocket.
Trending Stories: Sergio Aguero Doesn’t Believe Haaland Is Key To Man City’s UCL Success
MLS recently confirmed a global deal with Apple+ TV worth $2.5bn across the next decade and has a separate domestic deal with Fox Sports.
Yet should such a proposal become reality there will be many questions raised around the integrity of the competition when every team that Messi faces will also be part-funding his salary.
FIFA may also end up taking a dim view of such an arrangement.
Irrespective of the MLS plan, sources indicate that Messi would rather remain in Europe.
Messi has remained tight-lipped around his future but PSG’s latest Champions League failure may weaken their case.
COMMENTS