There have been a lot of speculations surrounding Lionel Messi‘s future in the past few days. After Inter Miami was knocked out of contention to reach the MLS Playoffs, fans are speculating if La Pulga could join a different side on loan for the remaining half of the season. The Saudi Arabian Football Association is hoping to lure the Inter Miami star to the Middle Eastern country to feature him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. However, their efforts might receive a big setback if reports are to be believed.

Based on the reports, different teams are vying to land Lionel Messi on a temporary loan. SAFF and the PIF are hoping to lure Lionel Messi to Saudi Arabia with Barcelona, also in the race to sign their former superstar. However, the two sides could receive massive competition from a third side.

Who is the third party looking to sign Lionel Messi?

Multiple sides have raised their hands at the chances of signing Lionel Messi on a short-term deal. The Argentine has been knocked out of the race to make it into the MLS Playoffs. With him being free for the remaining half of the season, the soccer veteran could be available for a short-term loan reaching close to January or February.

While there have been reports from Saudi Arabia, and Barcelona, a new side has joined the race with an eye-watering bid. According to journalist Jorge Nicola, “São Paulo is negotiating a loan with Lionel Messi. The request would be around 50 million dollars that Lionel Messi would lend to the São Paulo tricolor.”

However, Sao Paolo FC is not the only side that has been interested in Lionel Messi’s signature. Saudi Arabia has been keen on landing the Argentine player on a short-term deal to reunite him with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Also Read: Exactly 20 Years After Cristiano Ronaldo’s 1st Goal, $111M Star Shatters Al Nassr Star’s 14-Year-Old Record

Saudi Arabia looking to reunite Cristiano Ronaldo with rival

The SAFF and PIFF are looking to find a groundbreaking agreement alongside Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. Saudi is hoping to rope in Messi to a short-term loan deal that will see him spend his time in the Middle Eastern country, during MLS’s off-season. However, there has been no official approach or statement from any involved parties.

Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi shared a memorable rivalry over the years during their time at Real Madrid and Barcelona. However, if Saudi is successful in its efforts, fans could once again witness the duo going against each other. However, the side will face stiff competition from Sao Paulo and FC Barcelona, who are also hoping to land a deal with the Argentine.

WATCH THIS STORY: Power Couple David Beckham vs Victoria Beckham Net Worth Comparison: Who’s Wealthier?