Lionel Messi has been linked with a surprise short-term move to Turkish giants Galatasaray as the Argentine star weighs his options ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reports from Turkey suggest preliminary talks have already taken place over a temporary switch that would see Messi leave Major League Soccer for several months.
The Inter Miami captain is currently on a break from competitive action, with the new MLS season scheduled to begin on February 21. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is said to be considering a brief return to European football to maintain his fitness and sharpness before the global tournament in North America.
According to Turkish media, Galatasaray are exploring the possibility of bringing Messi to Istanbul for a four-month spell. The proposed deal would reportedly cover around 12 matches and is viewed as a way for the veteran forward to stay in top condition without overloading his schedule.
Turkish football analyst Levent Tüzemen has claimed that direct discussions have already been held between Messi’s camp and Galatasaray officials. He said the player is open to the idea but has set a clear condition regarding his participation.
Messi is reportedly willing to feature only in matches played in Istanbul. He is said to have made it clear that he does not want to travel for away fixtures, citing concerns over physical strain and the risk of injury ahead of the World Cup.
“The management confirmed it too. They wanted to arrange Lionel Messi for Galatasaray from the USA,” Tüzemen said in comments aired on A Spor. He added that Messi feels the tempo of the American league is demanding and wants to avoid any setbacks before the tournament.
Tüzemen also revealed that Messi turned down interest from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal. He claimed the Argentine believes a carefully managed schedule in Europe would better suit his preparation plans.
“Al Hilal made an offer and he did not accept it,” Tüzemen said. “If Messi comes, one million people will go to the airport. Messi said he would come on the condition that he plays in Istanbul and does not go to away games.”
Galatasaray are understood to be pushing forward with negotiations as the current transfer window approaches its Thursday deadline. The club has several upcoming home matches that could align with Messi’s conditions if an agreement is reached.
Those fixtures include domestic league games, a Turkish Cup group match, 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 should the move go ahead.
A switch to Galatasaray would also see Messi line up alongside Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who has been in outstanding form since joining the club. Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s 2024–2025 season, scoring 37 goals in 47 appearances as the club secured a domestic double.
The potential partnership has generated excitement among supporters, with the prospect of one of football’s greatest players joining one of Turkey’s most decorated clubs. Galatasaray fans are known for creating an intense atmosphere at home matches, something that could appeal to Messi given his stated preference.
Messi, meanwhile, enjoyed significant success with Inter Miami in 2025, leading the club to their first-ever MLS Cup title. His influence on and off the pitch has been credited with raising the profile of the league since his arrival in the United States.
Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has previously refused to dismiss the possibility of signing Messi. Speaking to beIN Sports, Ozbek said the club’s improved financial position allows it to dream big.
“You can’t live without dreaming,” Ozbek said. “Will we see Messi wearing the Galatasaray shirt one day? We have set the bar very high. Our financial situation allows us to ask about Messi without a problem.”
While no deal has been finalised, the reports have fueled widespread speculation as the transfer deadline approaches. Whether the move materialises or not, the links highlight Galatasaray’s ambition and Messi’s careful planning as he prepares for what is expected to be his final World Cup.
