Lionel Messi made the headlines after signing for Inter Miami in this transfer window. La Pulga had numerous clubs prepared to sign a deal once he decided not to extend his contract with PSG. On this note, Italian legend Paolo Maldini highlighted that AC Milan was also eager to sign the Argentine icon this season.

The Barca star didn’t lack suitors from the European clubs in this summer transfer window. Saudi Arabian club, Al Hilal was also in the market, laying out a $541 million deal for 8x Ballon d’Or winner. However, Messi brought an end to any such rumor by signing a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Herons in the twilight of his career.

AC Milan’s failed pursuit of Lionel Messi

The Italian giant aimed to bolster their attacking options after their stars, including Charles De Ketelaere, Ante Rebic, and Brahim Diaz departed from their squad. Paolo Maldini confirmed that AC Milan was determined to go through all possible ways to sign the PSG icon.

However, Lionel Messi already had plans for his next club on American soil. As a result, A.C. Milan decided to opt out after intensely working 10 days for his pursuit, instead exploring alternate options in the transfer market.

Trending

Lionel Messi’s Heartwarming Gesture Toward Fan Earns Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian’s Seal of Approval

May 08, 2024 04:33 AM EDT

Lionel Messi Joins Hands With Shakira in a Star-Studded Collaboration to Star in $5.9 Billion Worth Brand Ad Campaign

May 08, 2024 08:26 AM EDT

Banned: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Teammate Handed 3 Match Suspension- Reports

May 07, 2024 01:00 PM EDT

Latest Transfer Update Risks Lionel Messi & Angel Di Maria’s Reunion At Inter Miami After Tata Martino’s ‘Not Feasible’ Remarks

May 06, 2024 07:31 PM EDT

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Planning to File an Appeal Following Star Player’s 3-Match Suspension- Reports

May 08, 2024 05:03 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Maldini said in Poretcast, “We tried to sign Leo Messi. I wanted him, we called for it but after 10 days we understood it was just impossible. He’s a spectacle player. We really tried but then we understood that it was not possible for us”.

The Rossoneri proceeded to acquire soccer sensations like Christian Pulisic, Noah Okafor, and Luka Jovic for their attacking third. Furthermore, Messi had many other clubs lined up for this season. Let’s explore the teams that expressed a strong interest in him.

“It Needs to End Now” – After Police Brutality, Lionel Messi Lashes Out at Brazil as Argentine Hands Brazil 1st WCQ Loss at Home

Which clubs were ready to sign the Argentine icon?

Several European giants, including Barcelona, considered la Pulga for their squad. However, Blaugrana failed to progress with the fairytale return of their icon due to financial constraints. The prospect of the Argentine in the squad prompted numerous Premier League clubs to offer a lucrative deal in this transfer window.

Clubs like Manchester City, Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Chelsea appeared capable of inking a deal with the soccer veteran. Soccer fans also speculated Messi would join his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, to mark this latter stage of his career. However, The 36-year-old legend snubbed all these rumors to start a fresh chapter in MLS with Inter Miami.

WATCH THIS STORY- Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Makes a Huge Assist for Esports Space