Football: Lionel Messi reaches 'preliminary agreement' to buy Eldense
Lionel Messi has reached a preliminary agreement to become the majority shareholder of Spanish second-division football club Eldense. This move follows his previous investment in the Catalan club Cornella and continues his post-retirement involvement in football management.
Why it matters
The investment highlights the growing trend of high-profile athletes transitioning into club ownership and management roles within European football.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Messi won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022
Spanish second-division side Eldense say Argentina great Lionel Messi has reached a "preliminary agreement" to become the club's majority shareholder.
Eldense will become the second Spanish club Messi has invested in, having bought Catalan side Cornella in April .
The 39-year-old former Barcelona forward currently plays for Inter Miami and recently retired from international football after Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
Eldense said: "A preliminary agreement has been reached with Lionel Messi for the acquisition of the shares currently owned by Grupo TH Soluciones, which would make him the club's majority shareholder.
"The transaction is currently subject to the completion of the remaining legal and contractual procedures, including the due diligence process, as well as the required authorisation from the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD)."
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