LIONEL MESSI could complete a shock move to the MLS this summer, according to reports.
The 35-year-old has just three months remaining on his current contract with Paris Saint-Germain.
He is yet to agree terms for a new deal but has the option to stay in France for another year.
Messi has been linked with several clubs since the start of the year, including Inter Milan and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
He has also been tipped to make a triumphant return to Barcelona where he won four Champions League titles and a whopping 10 LaLiga titles.
However, according to Spanish outlet Sport, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner could be heading stateside.
All 29 MLS clubs have discussed a unique structure that would see Messi join the league.
Every club has committed to funding a percentage of the forward’s £900,000-a-week salary in the hope that his presence in the league will attract huge commercial benefits.
MLS chiefs also hope that he will bring increased viewing figures ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
If he does decide to make the switch, Messi will have the opportunity to choose which club he joins.
Messi has not commented on where he sees his future beyond the end of Europe’s club season, despite Miami launching the charm offensive to bring him to the United States.
Sportsmail first reported during the World Cup in Qatar that David Beckham’s team had make a breakthrough trying to convince him to head to the States. Miami have also been linked with a move for Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets – one of Messi’s former Nou Camp teammates.
And Miami coach Phil Neville has made no attempt whatsoever to downplay the team’s interest.
But, various reports have suggested that he currently prefers to stay in Europe.
Messi, who won the World Cup with Argentina in December, has scored 18 goals in 32 appearances for PSG so far this season.
