Lionel Messi is in the MLS playoffs with Inter Miami. © Rich Story/Getty Images
Is there really going to be a crazy transfer frenzy surrounding Lionel Messi? In any case, Galatasaray‘s president is self-confident.
When journalist Zeki Uzundurukan reported a few days ago that Galatasaray Istanbul was interested in temporarily signing Lionel Messi, some fans of the Turkish record champions may have lost faith. But what initially sounds like a dream could actually become reality.
Gala boss gives Gala fans hope for Messi
At least Dursun Özbek, President of Galatasaray, does not rule out such a scenario. “Did you say Messi,” he replied, according to Sportx.com, at the Bogazici Sports Summit when asked about the superstar and suggested that a Messi transfer would actually be possible.
“We have set the bar very high. We have made the highest transfer in the history of Turkish football (Victor Osimhen for 75 million euros from SSC Napoli, editor’s note). Galatasaray’s economic situation allows for such transfers. We have brought the level of success to a high level, so you can confidently ask the question about Messi.”
Lionel Messi has been playing for Inter Miami since 2023. © ACHPF / Shutterstock.com
Although Messi had only extended his contract with Inter Miami until 2028 a few weeks ago, Uzundurukan reported that the Argentine could move to Turkey during the almost four-month MLS break. Such a change is actually common practice; David Beckham and Thierry Henry have done this.
Galatasaray are probably already in contact with Messi
However, it remains to be seen whether Messi’s dream for Galatasaray will actually become a reality. In any case, according to Uzundurukan, those responsible are already in contact with the 38-year-old and have assured that they can pay him his current salary of ten million euros. However, Messi does not collect a large part of his money through his official salary from Inter Miami, but rather through sponsors.
It is doubtful whether Galatasaray can still keep up. In addition, it is not clear whether Messi would even be interested in a move. But as befits the president of the Turkish record champions, Özbek is optimistic.
Those: Sporx.com
