[b]Lionel Messi[/b] is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract with Inter Miami, which would see the Argentine icon remain with the [b]MLS[/b] franchise through their transition into a new era. This new deal would solidify Messi's position at the club for the foreseeable future, ensuring that the 37-year-old continues to play a central role in the club's growth and development as they embark on an exciting new chapter in Major League Soccer. Messi's extension will allow him to play a crucial part in the club’s transition as they move forward into a new era with even greater ambitions. 

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, negotiations between Messi and Inter Miami are close to completion, and a final decision is expected within the next 60 to 90 days. The agreement appears to be in its final stages, with managing owner Jorge Mas confirming that they expect a resolution soon. Mas further expressed his excitement, saying, “The stars are aligning for something great… My hope has always been to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026.” This statement reflects the immense anticipation surrounding Messi’s continued presence at the club, especially with the forthcoming transition to the new stadium that will be a symbol of Inter Miami’s future growth.

Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023 on a free transfer, has had an immediate and profound impact on the club both on and off the pitch. In his time with the club, Messi has netted an impressive 42 goals in 48 appearances and helped lead Inter Miami to victory in the Leagues Cup title and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. His arrival has not only boosted the team's performance but has significantly raised the global profile of the MLS, drawing international attention and establishing Inter Miami as a leading club in the league. Messi’s influence has gone beyond just statistics, with his presence having a monumental effect on the growth of soccer in the United States.

If the new deal is finalized, Messi’s continued association with Inter Miami will coincide with the club’s highly anticipated move to the $1 billion Miami Freedom Park. The state-of-the-art, 25,000-seat stadium is slated to open in 2026 as part of a massive 131-acre development project. This new stadium will be a landmark for the club, offering a world-class facility that matches the global ambitions of both Inter Miami and Messi himself. The move is seen as an essential part of the club’s strategy to expand its global brand and elevate its status both within and outside of the United States.

Additionally, the contract extension would ensure that Messi leads Inter Miami during this summer's revamped Club World Cup, which promises to be a thrilling tournament for the club. In the group stages, Inter Miami will face top teams such as Palmeiras, Porto, and Al-Ahly, with Messi expected to play a crucial role in guiding the team through the competition. The Club World Cup, along with the new stadium and other significant projects, will solidify Messi’s legacy at the club and further cement his place in the history of football worldwide.

In short, Inter Miami are betting on Messi not just for his incredible goal-scoring abilities but as the cornerstone of their expansion into a global football brand. Messi’s continued presence at the club is seen as pivotal to their long-term vision and plans for growth. All signs indicate that the partnership between Messi and Inter Miami will continue for the foreseeable future, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next steps in the club’s ambitious journey. With Messi at the helm, Inter Miami is poised to make a significant mark in global football, and the club’s future looks incredibly bright.