Will Messi play in South America? Which club has its eye on the Argentine?

World football star, Argentine Lionel Messi continues to arouse the desire of clubs and enchant fans. At 38 years old, the player plays for Inter Miami, in North America. However, there is still hope among Argentines to see the legend wearing a shirt from his home country. THE Sporting News answers which club is interested in signing Messi.

MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo out of Saudi Arabia? Will CR7 return to Manchester United?

Will Messi play in South America?

Lionel Messi’s childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, has a project to repatriate the world star in 2027. The plan was revealed by the vice-president of the Rosario club, Juan Manuel Medina.

— We are working for Messi to play at Newell’s in the first half of 2027, but for now there is no more than that. It all depends on what we can offer in terms of infrastructure and a competitive sports system — said Medina to the TN portal.

According to Medina, the project involves Newell’s, authorities from the city of Rosario and the country’s football federation, the AFA. The city of Rosario, however, has suffered from violence, which has even become an impediment for another star of the Argentine National Team, Angel Di Maria, to return to his home club, Rosário Central, Newell’s biggest rival.

The region has suffered from security problems for years, with the growth of drug trafficking and criminal groups competing for territory and influence. Di Maria, however, overcame these issues and returned to Rosário in 2025. His presence in the city is seen as one of the assets to convince Messi, as both are great friends.

Therefore, Messi’s return requires a plan not only for sports, but also for public security. According to Medina, the development of the project began in 2024, when his team, headed by the current president of Newell’s, Ignacio Boero, took charge of the club.

MORE: EA FC 27: Will the Brazilian Championship return to the game? How will it work?

Messi not Inter Miami

Messi recently renewed with Inter Miami, from MLS, where he just became national champion, and has a contract until the end of 2028.