- Messi linked with short term Galatasaray move before 2026 World Cup
- Argentine star reportedly wants only home matches in Istanbul
- Potential partnership with Victor Osimhen excites fans
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been linked with a surprise short term move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, a transfer that could see him play alongside Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen.
Reports from Turkish media suggest the eight time Ballon d’Or winner is considering a temporary exit from Major League Soccer as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi is currently on a break from competitive action, with the new MLS season scheduled to begin on February 21.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Inter Miami captain is believed to be exploring a four month stay in Europe to maintain peak physical condition ahead of the global tournament. Turkish football analyst Levent Tüzemen claimed that preliminary talks have already taken place between Galatasaray and Messi, with the forward reportedly open to a deal covering 12 matches.
However, the proposed move is said to come with a major condition. Messi would only be willing to feature in matches played in Istanbul and would not travel for away fixtures.
“The management confirmed it too. They wanted to arrange Lionel Messi for Galatasaray from the USA,” Tüzemen said during an appearance on A Spor.
According to him, Messi is concerned about the demanding tempo of the American league and wants to avoid injury before the World Cup.
“Al Hilal made an offer and he did not accept it. If Messi comes, one million people will go to the airport,” he added. “Messi said he would come on the condition that he plays in Istanbul. He stated that he would play 12 matches provided he does not go to away games.”
Galatasaray are reportedly pushing ahead with discussions as the transfer window approaches its Thursday deadline. The club has several upcoming home fixtures, including league matches, a Turkish Cup group game and a UEFA Champions League play off tie against Juventus.
It remains unclear whether Messi would be willing to travel for the away leg of the European tie if the deal is completed.
A move to Istanbul would see Messi team up with Osimhen, who has impressed since joining Galatasaray. The Nigerian striker scored 37 goals in 47 appearances during the club’s 2024 2025 domestic double winning season.
Messi, meanwhile, led Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title in 2025.
Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has previously refused to rule out a move for the Argentine star.
“You can’t live without dreaming. Will we see Messi wearing the Galatasaray shirt one day? We have set the bar very high,” Ozbek said in an interview with beIN Sports.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that
