Beckham’s influence is also said to be a key part of the deal. As an ambassador for the Qataris at this World Cup, the former England captain has a direct line to the owners of PSG, while his relationship with Messi has been cemented by their long association with Adidas.

Also favouring Miami is the fact that Messi’s PSG contract expires at the end of this season, giving him the freedom to move. When he switched from Barcelona to Paris last year it was also on a free transfer, in a two-year deal reportedly worth £1.2 million a week.

PSG may yet attempt to extend his agreement at the Parc des Princes, particularly if he signs off his international career by lifting the World Cup next month. After a shock defeat by Saudi Arabia in their opening game, Argentina got their campaign back on track on Saturday night with a 2-0 win against Mexico. Messi opened the scoring with his second goal of the tournament.

MLS has signed some big names in the past, including Beckham himself. But with the next World Cup due to take place in the US — alongside its co-hosts Canada and Mexico — the arrival of Messi would be timely.