Lionel Messi To Turkey? Galatasaray Launch Talks In Stunning Transfer Twist

According to Ireporter Online, Lionel Messi is reportedly considering a short-term move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, a development that could see the Argentine superstar team up with Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.

Turkish media indicate that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is exploring a temporary exit from Major League Soccer to maintain peak fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Messi, currently on a break from competitive play, is set to return to MLS action when the new season begins on February 21.

The Inter Miami captain is reportedly evaluating a four-month stint in Europe, with Turkish football analyst Levent Tüzemen claiming that discussions with Galatasaray have already taken place. The proposed deal would cover 12 matches, though Messi is said to have one stipulation: all appearances must be in Istanbul, with no plans to participate in away fixtures.

Tüzemen told A Spor, “The management confirmed it too. They wanted to arrange Lionel Messi for Galatasaray from the USA. 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.”

The Argentine forward reportedly turned down an offer from Al Hilal, citing concerns about the demanding tempo of MLS and the risk of injury ahead of the World Cup.

Galatasaray is reportedly advancing negotiations as the transfer window approaches its Thursday deadline. If the move is finalized, Messi would join Osimhen, who scored 37 goals in 47 matches during Galatasaray’s 2024-2025 domestic double-winning season.

Messi, meanwhile, led Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup title in 2025. Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek previously hinted at the possibility of signing the star forward, stating, “You can’t live without dreaming. Will we see Messi wearing the Galatasaray shirt one day? Our financial situation allows us to ask about Messi without a problem. We have raised our level of success and consolidated our financial stability, which is why people can now ask us about Messi without hesitation,” as quoted by beIN Sports.