Galatasaray is reportedly considering a bold move to sign Lionel Messi on a four-month loan, according to Turkish newspaper FotoMaç. The idea takes advantage of the MLS offseason, which ends in early December and resumes in March. The Istanbul club hopes to convince the Argentine star to play during that period, keeping him in top form ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
According to the report, the plan appeals to Messi, who wants to stay active even while the North American league is on break. At 38, the Argentine believes maintaining his competitive rhythm is key to arriving in good physical and technical condition for his next World Cup.
Galatasaray would reportedly be willing to pay Messi’s full salary during the loan. The player earns around $20 million a year at Inter Miami, where he recently extended his contract for another three seasons.
Heavy investment and Turkish ambition
Galatasaray’s interest reflects the club’s most aggressive financial phase in years. The Istanbul side spent €75 million to sign Victor Osimhen, the biggest transfer in Turkish soccer history, and pays the Nigerian forward €15 million per season. The squad also includes big European names like Leroy Sané and İlkay Gündoğan, under coach Okan Buruk.
Messi’s arrival, even for just four months, would be the most symbolic move of this new era. The Argentine would take Galatasaray to a new level of global visibility. Beyond his impact on the field, the commercial effect would be immediate. Messi’s presence in Istanbul would attract international attention, boost sponsorship revenue, and elevate the image of the Turkish league.
Messi’s interest and the deal’s feasibility
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs through 2028, but the MLS break opens the door for a short-term loan. The Argentine has already expressed interest in staying active during the offseason to avoid losing sharpness. According to FotoMaç, before the Turkish inquiry, Messi’s representatives had contacted Saudi Arabian clubs with a similar proposal, but the idea was rejected by the country’s sports minister.
For Galatasaray, the sporting project and the club’s current growth could be key factors in attracting Messi. However, the deal depends on approval from both Inter Miami and MLS, which would be reluctant to release their biggest star without clear guarantees regarding his return and physical condition.
Even so, the Turkish club’s interest shows how much Messi still moves the global market. At 38, the Argentine remains the most sought-after player on the planet, capable of turning any team into the center of attention.