There were speculations regarding Lionel Messi’s potential return to Newell’s Old Boys, and now reports have emerged denying any negotiations between the two parties. The Argentine is happy with Inter
Miami, and he would be looking to complete the current deal until 2028. There could be a possibility of a contract extension as well to stay in the MLS for another couple of seasons.
Newell’s Old Boys is Messi’s boyhood club, and the fans anticipated his return to the club. The transfer move could take place in the last days of Messi’s football career, and the club would be happy to have him.
According to Fabrizio Romano, there are no active negotiations taking place between Lionel Messi and Newell’s Old Boys. The Argentine icon joined Inter Miami in 2023 and he signed a two and a half year contract with the club. It was an emotional moment for all the fans, as that would mean that Messi wouldn’t take part in European football.
However, the speculations of a dream return to his childhood club were lingering around. The transfer deal could possibly be off for now, as Messi could look for a contract extension with Inter Miami and add some more silverware to their trophy cabinet.
🚨🇦🇷 There are no negotiations taking place for Lionel Messi’s return to Newell’s Old Boys despite reports.
Messi is very happy at Inter Miami, same for his family.
Leo wants to fulfill current deal until 2028, at least — could be even longer, to be evaluated later on.
🎥➕ https://t.co/ZstmhxoOiJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 30, 2026
Lionel Messi aims to fulfill Inter Miami contract until 2028
Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami was probably the biggest moment in Major League Soccer history. He made an immediate impact at the club as he led the side to their first-ever championship in the Leagues Cup 2023. Messi further helped the club win some more trophies by winning the Supporters’ Shield as well.
Later, Inter Miami won the franchise’s first-ever MLS Cup in December 2025 by defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps 3–1. The environment has evolved positively as they have been a dangerous side in the tournament. Furthermore, Lionel Messi signed a contract extension until the end of 2028.
The Argentine icon began his football journey with Newell’s Old Boys and they would be hoping for a union. Messi has been their most celebrated youth graduate and he had a memorable time at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa. The Inter Miami forward joined the Rosario-based club in 1994 when he was just six years old.
The Rosario Football Association stated that Messi reportedly scored 234 goals in just 176 matches for the Newell’s academy between the ages of 6 and 12. The former FC Barcelona star was later diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency and he had to part ways with the club to join the Catalans to afford the treatment.
While the door hasn’t been permanently closed to Newell’s Old Boys, an imminent move would be off the cards as of now. For now, Inter Miami would be the sole focus of Messi and he would be keen on finishing on a high in the MLS. The Argentine legend remains firm in completing his current contract deal which lasts until 2028.
