Inter Miami is actively seeking to prolong Lionel Messi's tenure in Major League Soccer by proposing a new contract to the esteemed Argentine player. Since his arrival at Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has significantly heightened the profile of MLS, particularly as the United States prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although Messi's current contract is set to conclude after the upcoming season, Inter Miami is determined to retain his services for a longer period.

As reported by Marca, Messi is in discussions to finalize a new agreement with Inter Miami, which would also permit him to participate in European competitions. The 37-year-old intends to extend his commitment to the Argentine national team in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, aiming to assist them in defending their title. To adequately prepare for this major event, Messi's potential contract extension may include a provision that allows him to return to Europe at the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026, potentially facilitating a reunion with his former club, Barcelona, which remains dear to him.

Additionally, Messi will embark on another preseason tour with Inter Miami, consisting of five matches across four different countries as the team gears up for the 2025 season.

Three matches in South America and Central America were announced on Friday, with Inter Miami commencing this tour against Peruvian champions Club Universitario de Deportes in Lima on January 29.

“We are thrilled to announce the five matches against both domestic and international opponents throughout the Americas, which will prepare us for an eagerly awaited 2025,” stated Raul Sanllehi, Inter Miami's president of football operations. “These matches will position us optimally for an exceptional campaign, as we compete in various tournaments this year, including the FIFA Club World Cup, CONCACAF Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and MLS.”

This is the schedule for Inter Miami's preseason games:

Saturday, January 18 - America of Mexico at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas.

Wednesday, January 29 - Club Universitario de Deportes at Estadio Monumental, Lima, Peru.

Sunday, February 2 - Sporting San Miguelito at Estadio Rommel Fernandez Gutierrez, Panama City, Panama.

Saturday, February 8 - Club Deportivo Olimpia at Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano, San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

Friday, February 14 - Orlando City at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa.

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