Is this legendary sports star moving to Saudi Arabia?

Footballer Lionel Messi’s move to the kingdom is a “done deal.”

The football world is going wild for the latest news. According to reports in France, Paris Saint-Germain footballer Lionel Messi will be moving to Saudi Arabia. In a move that has been described as a “done deal”, he is expected to play for the kingdom’s Al Hilal.

Messi’s Al Hilal contract has been reported to be worth as much as £522 million. If the rumours are true, he is expected to end his contract with Paris Saint-Germain and move to Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Messi and his family were last seen in the kingdom at the start of May. During his trip, he was fulfilling his new role as Saudi Tourism brand ambassador. The group visited Riyadh and toured the city, from Bujairi Terrace to Via Riyadh. 

Following the trip, he was suspended for two weeks for visiting Saudi Arabia without the club’s permission. Messi’s request to carry out commercial work in the country was initially refused. 

Now, Messi is expected to join fellow footballer and Riyadh resident, Cristiano Ronaldo in the kingdom. In 2022, Ronaldo signed a $439 million deal with the country’s football team, Al Nassr. He moved with his partner Georgina Rodriguez and five children. 

For the uninitiated on Saudi’s sporting scene, Al Nassr and Al Hilal are rivals. Lionel Messi famously led his home team, Argentina, to victory at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. While Ronaldo led the Portuguese team to the quarter final, and they were defeated by Morrocco. 

The reports have not yet been confirmed. Check-in with FACT for the latest information. 

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