Messi Close to Buying Second Spanish Club

Argentine legend Lionel Messi has agreed to purchase Elche CF, according to the club’s rival in Spain’s second division. Elche, based in the city of Elche in the province of Alicante, will become the Argentine striker’s second venture in owning Spanish football clubs, after he bought fifth-tier club Cornellà in April. The 39-year-old currently plays for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami and retired from international football after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final this summer. The club told Agence France-Presse, “Elche CF can confirm that Lionel Messi has reached a preliminary agreement with the club’s current owners to acquire the shares currently held by the TH Solutions group, which would make him the largest shareholder in Elche CF.” It added, “At present, the deal remains pending until the completion of final legal and contractual procedures, including the necessary due diligence process, as well as obtaining the required approval from the Spanish Sports Council.” It continued, “At this time, the club cannot disclose details regarding the financial terms of the deal or set a final deadline for its completion, as the process has not yet been finalized.” The club, founded in 1921, noted, “Once the relevant procedures are completed and the necessary permits obtained, Elche CF will officially announce any updates on this matter.”