Premier League giants want to sign Lionel Messi on six-month loan deal; David Beckham will not block transfer: Reports

Lionel Messi could reportedly be heading to the Premier League on a six-month loan deal in the January transfer window, as per Tuttosport (via Hindustan Times). The Argentine icon is in the middle of the MLS offseason, with the 2025 campaign not set to resume until the end of February.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner was brilliant last season for Inter Miami, garnering 23 goals and 13 assists in 25 appearances across competitions. He was also named MVP of the regular MLS season after guiding them to the 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield. However, it seems that he could be heading to England on a temporary basis to alleviate the ongoing struggles of an old manager and mentor.

Manchester City have struggled for form this season following Rodri's season-ending ACL injury. They most recently suffered a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa in the Premier League earlier today (December 21). they are languishing in sixth place in the table with 27 points from 17 games. In addition, the Cityzens have lost nine out of their last 12 games across all competitions and have just one win.

Despite his midfield being a notable point of weakness, Pep Guardiola is reportedly interested in signing Lionel Messi in January to reverse his side's fortunes. The pair enjoyed great success during their time in Barcelona between 2008 and 2012. They won 14 trophies, including three LaLiga titles and two UEFA Champions League cups. Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham will also not block this reported transfer.

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Inter Miami recently sold Lionel Messi's teammate to MLS rivals

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami will be aiming to bolster their squad ahead of the 2025 MLS season. However, the Herons recently announced the departure of Leonardo Campana (December 19). The Ecuadorian was traded to the New England Revolution for a trade-record of $2.5 million in General Allocation Money.

Inter Miami posted on X:

"Thanks for everything, scorer. Forward Leonardo Campana has been traded to the New England Revolution, acquiring a Major League Soccer (MLS) trade-record of $2.5 million in General Allocation Money."

Campana had a decent 2024 campaign for the Herons, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in 35 appearances across competitions. However, he was limited to just 14 starts in the MLS, falling behind Luis Suarez in the pecking order.

Lionel Messi broke his all-time top scoring record for Inter Miami last season. The 24-year-old had joined the Herons on a permanent deal in 2023 from Wolverhampton Wanderers. He made 100 appearances across competitions for the club, accumulating 32 goals and eight assists, winning two trophies.