Messi now available as a free agent amid exit claims

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi now has only six months left on his contract, which means he is now available to negotiate with any club as a free agent.

If Messi wants to remain at Inter Miami, his current status is not a source of concern for the Herons. The problem for the Miami-based side is that he is contemplating leaving. 

As Pulse Sports reported, Messi is considering leaving the club when his contract expires to join a European club to help him get adequate physical preparation for the 2026 World Cup in an intense setting.

While Inter Miami immediately issued a counter report, expressing confidence in their negotiations with Messi's camp for a renewal, the Argentine now holds all the leverage.

There have been suggestions that the Serie A would be the ideal league for him, given the division's relationship with players in their advanced age. League champions Napoli would be a likely destination, given the Diego Maradona connection. 

A return to Barcelona could also be on the cards. The Blaugrana are set to return to Camp Nou later this year.  Given Messi's abrupt exit, there have been musings that Barcelona are planning to bring him back to give him a befitting farewell tour.