Lionel Messi Next Club Odds: Barcelona Favourites To Sign Superstar

Lionel Messi has been linked with a sensational return to Barcelona as the megastar weighs up his options ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Messi’s tenure with Inter Miami is nearing its end – his contract expires in December 2025 – with UK betting sites offering odds on his next move. 

As the 2026 tournament approaches, Messi will be keen to stay sharp, with a range of potential destinations, from sentimental homecomings to one last European adventure on the cards.

Barcelona are the clear favourites to sign Messi in what would be a remarkable storyline, while a return to his boyhood club or a move to a European giant also remains a possibility.

Let’s take a closer look at the latest Lionel Messi next club odds, according to football betting sites. 

Barcelona Return On The Cards?

A return to Barcelona would carry immense emotional weight as it is where Messi’s legend was forged.

Despite lingering financial challenges and existing wage restrictions, the club has reportedly softened its stance to permit a low-wage or loan arrangement.

On the pitch, Barcelona are competitive, having just won La Liga, and are considered firm Champions League contenders next season. 

A reunion with Messi would boost morale, ticket sales and squad depth, especially given their vibrant attack led by teenage standout Lamine Yamal.

Messi is currently 9/2 with betting apps to return to Camp Nou.

Old Boys Would Provide New Option

Returning to Rosario would signify a full-circle homecoming for Messi, wrapping up his career on Argentine soil. 

Although the Primera Division’s competitive level is below Europe or even Major League Soccer, Messi’s presence would elevate the league’s profile and inspire a generation of domestic talent.

From a footballing perspective, Newell’s recent exploits in Copa Libertadores means Messi would not just be playing at home, he could be competing at continental level. 

Although the move would come with a pay cut, at this stage in his career, it could be more about legacy and connection than finances and Messi is 13/2 to return to Newell’s Old Boys.

Ronaldo Reunion In Saudi?

According to reports, Al Ahli are rumoured to be in advanced talks – possibly aiming to reunite Messi with Cristiano Ronaldo. 

Despite scepticism around the competitive level, Saudi clubs have deep pockets and growing international ambition.

Messi already has commercial links in the region, including a sizeable deal with Saudi Arabia’s tourism board. 

For the player, it could be both a professional final chapter and a financially irresistible opportunity.

Messi is 15/2 to join a Saudi Pro League club next.

Bayern Offer Genuine Challenge

Reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Muinch are a footballing powerhouse with a long history of success in the Champions League and domestic competition.

A move to Germany would be one of the most competitive challenges for Messi, aligning with his desire to maintain elite form in the build-up to the World Cup. 

However, Bayern’s tactical approach and squad dynamics might limit his freedom – especially in a team built around pressing and counter-attacking rather than free-roaming attackers and Messi is 8/1 to be playing in Bavaria next season.

Paris A Possibility

Messi spent two years with PSG between 2021 and 2023, scoring 22 goals in 58 games and providing 30 assists, and could return for another Champions League push.

Although the French side could provide a familiar and comfortable fit, the newly crowned European champions may be reluctant to disrupt their squad balance by bringing in another high-profile star – a strategy that has backfired for them in the past.

As a result, Messi is 10/1 to return to the French capital.

Premier League Clubs Also In The Frame

Other names mentioned in the betting include Manchester City (18/1), new Club World Cup winners Chelsea (20/1) and Arsenal (22/1).

This raises the prospect of one of the biggest stars the game has ever seen finishing his career in the Premier League. 

While less likely, these options would present Messi with a new challenge in arguably the world’s toughest domestic league.