Lionel Messi has reportedly made a specific transfer request to Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham following his debut season in the United States.
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After missing out on the MLS play-offs this past campaign, Beckham and his board members seem intent on strengthening their squad before football resumes in 2024.
Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets were both signed earlier this year, although it was Messi's arrival in Miami that boosted the club's profile and brought more eyeballs to the MLS.
The Argentine, after scoring on his debut with a stunning free-kick, went on to contribute to 16 goals in just 14 appearances as the Herons claimed the Leagues Cup trophy.
Reports across Europe and the US suggest Gremio's Luis Suarez is expected to become the next big-name signing in Miami, but Fansided claims yet another ex-Barcelona man is interested in the project.
The publication reports Messi has requested that Beckham "facilitate the signing" of Sevilla's Ivan Rakitic, who is believed to be willing to take a significant salary cut in order to join the club.
The Croatian midfielder, now 35 years old, was a key player for the Catalan giants during his six-year stay at the Camp Nou between 2014 and 2020, amassing 310 appearances across all competitions.
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Rakitic currently has a deal in Spain until the end of the current season.
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