Newell’s has launched an ambitious plan to bring in Old Boys Lionel Messi Back to his childhood club.

Messi was born in Rosario and played for Newell before moving to Barcelona at the age of 13, where his career began.

He has spoken on several occasions of wanting to return, but, now aged 38, that seems unlikely, particularly as he Recently signed a contract at Inter Miami that ties him to the Major League Soccer club until the end of the 2028 season.

But Newell’s vice-president Juan Manuel Medina has told reporters of his desire to see the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner back in the club’s red and black kit – and revealed a wider initiative is already underway.

He said: “We are doing everything we can to bring Leo back in the first half of 2027, but nothing more for now. The initiative covers soccer in Rosario, Santa Fe and Argentina. Everything depends on what we can show in terms of infrastructure and being able to offer a competitive sports package.”

Messi is currently focused on preparing for MLS

Messi’s main focus is on preparing for the new MLS season, Which will start from February 21. His Miami side is the defending champion and is busy building a new roster.

Veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have retired and, when he plays next season, Luis Suarez is expected to be a bench-warmer rather than first-choice.

Miami has done a heavy recruiting spree, bringing in Monterrey striker German Bertram for $15m and also snapping up Dane St. Clair, Sergio Regulon, David Ayala and Michael.

Messi has yet to commit to playing for Argentina at this summer’s World Cup but it seems inconceivable that a star line-up at the 2022 tournament will not help his country defend the crown.