Lionel Messi Expands Football Empire, Set To Take Majority Stake In Spanish Club Eldense

Lionel Messi is set to add another Spanish football club to his growing portfolio, with the Argentina superstar reaching a preliminary agreement to become the majority shareholder of second-division side Eldense.

Eldense, based near Alicante in southeastern Spain, confirmed on Wednesday that Messi had reached an agreement with the club's owners. The proposed deal would see the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner acquire the shares held by Grupo TH Soluciones, although the transaction remains subject to legal and contractual formalities.

The club has not disclosed the financial terms of the proposed takeover or given a date for its completion.

If finalised, Eldense would become the second Spanish club in which Messi has invested. Earlier this year, he became the owner of Barcelona-based fifth-tier side UE Cornella, marking a new chapter in his relationship with Spanish football after spending most of his playing career at Barcelona.

Messi's proposed involvement comes at a difficult moment for Eldense. The club parted ways with coach Claudio Barragan on Sunday after collecting only two points from its opening four league matches this season.

The move also carries a strong historical connection for Messi. He arrived in Spain as a 13-year-old with his family and entered Barcelona's youth system before becoming one of the greatest players in the club's history. During nearly two decades with Barcelona, Messi won numerous domestic and international trophies before leaving in 2021.

Eldense itself has links to Barcelona. The club was founded in September 1921 by supporters of the Catalan giants, which also explains its traditional blue-and-red colours.

At 39, Messi continues to remain a major force in football. He was named this week among the nominees for another Ballon d'Or after helping Argentina reach the World Cup final and winning the MLS Cup with Inter Miami.

His potential move into majority ownership at Eldense could further strengthen his growing presence in football beyond the pitch.