MLS and sponsors prepare package to convince Lionel Messi

One of the most important sports signings of all time could be very close to being realized, as Major League Soccer, the top tier in the US, and its main sponsors are making very interesting moves to convince Lionel Messi to join.

The North American league, together with Apple TV and Adidas, are preparing a package to get a suitable deal in place for the world champion in Qatar 2022 to move to Inter Miami.

In the last few hours there have been multiple rumors indicating that Messi has made a decision regarding his future, taking into account the personal and family project of the historic number ‘10′ of the Argentina national team and Barcelona. The Athletic reported that MLS is trying its very best to win the battle.

The information released by journalists Paul Tenorio, Felipe Cárdenas and Pablo Maurer stated that Messi is warming to the idea.

Apple TV and Adidas get in on the action

The two most important sponsors of the MLS, Apple TV and Adidas, are part of this negotiation, with the streaming platform and the league looking at offering Messi part of the income generated if he were to sign with Inter Miami. There is no doubt that he would drive new subscribers.

A similar deal would be laid out from the sportswear company, handing the Argentine a profit-sharing agreement linked to revenue coming in from kits sales. Messi and Adidas have had a contractual relationship since 2006.

The ‘David Beckham’ option

The report adds that there would also be the option given to Messi to buy a percentage of a franchise if he joins the MLS when he retires. This would be similar to the one that led David Beckham to sign for the LA Galaxy and which ended with his participation in Inter Miami.

So, as Saudi Arabia flexes its financial muscle snapping up soccer superstars past their prime, MLS is hoping not to be left behind...