Turkish media reports indicate that Galatasaray is preparing to make a bold and unprecedented move by requesting to loan Argentine star Lionel Messi for four months during the MLS off-season.
According to the Turkish newspaper Fotomac, the Istanbul giants aim to bring Messi to Rams Park Stadium between January and April 2026 to maintain his fitness before Argentina begins its World Cup title defense.
The report, written by veteran journalist and Fotomac editor-in-chief Zeki Uzun Durukan, claims that Galatasaray is “closely monitoring” Messi’s situation and that informal contact has already been made with his entourage.
Inter Miami is expected to conclude its playoff run, which could end by early December. If Miami fails to reach the MLS Cup final on December 7, Messi will face nearly four months without competitive football, as the following season will not begin until late February or March.
Galatasaray’s plan is to capitalize on Messi’s desire to be fully fit for the World Cup by convincing him that this loan would help him maintain his rhythm and gain experience at a higher level of football, which would be beneficial before the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The report indicates that Galatasaray’s offer includes covering up to 75% of Messi’s salary during the short loan period – an estimated £5-7 million ($6.45 million to $9.03 million).
While the idea seems promising, Messi has previously stated that he does not want to return to Europe, and indicated that one of the reasons for his move to Inter Miami was his desire to never wear any jersey other than Barcelona’s in Europe.
Messi might prefer this extended break to playing a heavy schedule of matches in the Turkish league and the Champions League, which could expose him to the risk of injury and fatigue before the World Cup.
