Galatasaray are reportedly planning one of the most ambitious transfers in football history — to bring Lionel Messi on a four-month loan during the MLS mid-season break, ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
According to Turkish journalist Zeki Uzundurukan, the Istanbul giants are in direct contact with the 38-year-old Inter Miami star and his representatives, and are prepared to match his €10 million salary for the loan period.
Uzundurukan revealed on Transfer TV that Galatasaray scouts have been closely following Messi, viewing the break caused by the expanded tournament format as the perfect opportunity for the Argentine to regain form in Europe. “We will pay the money,” Uzundurukan quoted club officials as saying, highlighting the club’s financial plan to comfortably cover the World Cup winner’s wages.
If completed, this move would surpass any deal in the history of Turkish football, combining Messi’s mission to defend his world title with the electrifying atmosphere of Istanbul.
Following high-profile signings such as Leroy Sané and Victor Osimhen, Galatasaray see Messi as the final piece in their pursuit of both domestic and European glory.
