Report: Lionel Messi to Be Pursued by Saudi Pro League If He Leaves PSG After Season

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's long-running rivalry could enter a new phase.

ESPN's Rob Dawson reported the Saudi Pro League could make a move for Messi if the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner should he choose to leave Paris Saint-Germain following the end of the current season.

Messi was linked with a move to MLS in November. By December, however, ESPN's Julien Laurens reported the 35-year-old "has agreed in principle to stay at PSG" for next season but that nothing was finalized. Laurens followed up on Jan. 12 to report PSG remained optimistic about advancing extension discussions.

Based on the newest rumors, Messi might be heading elsewhere after all.

While he hasn't officially retired from national team duty, his window to represent Argentina at major tournaments is probably closed. That removes one hurdle to leaving Europe and cashing out at what's perceived to be a lesser league.

And the riches Messi can earn in Saudi Arabia are probably unmatched.

Ronaldo is collecting $210 million annually from his two-and-a-half-year deal with Al Nassr. Per Dawson, Messi's payout would be similar to that.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner already has a formal role with the Saudi government, serving as a tourism ambassador, which could see him help promote Saudi Arabia's push to host the 2030 World Cup.

Given his existing ties to the country, it might be just a matter of time before Messi is showcasing his skills in the Saudi Pro League, whether it's this summer or further down the road.