….The Argentine football star’s acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval from Spain’s High Council for Sports.
Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has signed an agreement to acquire 100 per cent of the shares of Spanish second-division club CD Eldense.
The development moves the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner closer to becoming the sole owner of the Alicante-based football club.
However, the transaction is not yet legally complete, as it still requires the necessary authorisation from Spain’s High Council for Sports (CSD), alongside the completion of outstanding legal procedures.
Messi Moves From Preliminary Agreement to Signed Deal
The latest development follows an agreement in principle announced earlier in September between Messi and Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group S.A.S., which currently controls Eldense.
The original agreement involved the proposed acquisition of the group’s entire shareholding in the club.
Eldense had previously confirmed that the transaction remained subject to due diligence, legal and contractual procedures, and regulatory approval.
The signing of the purchase agreement represents another step towards completing the takeover.
Reports from Spain indicate that the CSD approval process could take several days or weeks.
Eldense Could Become Messi’s Second Spanish Club
If the acquisition receives regulatory approval, Eldense will become Messi’s second football club investment in Spain.
The former Barcelona captain acquired UE Cornellà in April 2026. Cornellà competes in the lower levels of the Spanish football system and is recognised for its youth-development structure.
Eldense, meanwhile, plays in Spain’s professional second division and is based in Elda, Alicante.
The club was established in 1921 and has experienced periods in both professional and lower divisions. Its proposed acquisition would give Messi ownership of a professional Spanish football team.
Messi Expands Football Ownership Portfolio
Messi’s investment in Eldense forms part of his growing involvement in football ownership while he remains an active player with Inter Miami.
His football interests also include Deportivo LSM in Uruguay, where he is associated with former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez.
The Eldense acquisition could increase the club’s international visibility and create opportunities for wider commercial and sporting development.
However, the immediate future of the project will depend on the completion of the regulatory process and decisions taken after the takeover is formally approved.
Regulatory Approval Still Outstanding
Despite the signing of the acquisition agreement, Messi has not yet become Eldense’s officially registered owner.
The CSD must approve the change in ownership, while the remaining legal and contractual procedures must also be concluded.
Once these requirements are fulfilled, Messi is expected to assume control of 100 per cent of Eldense’s shares.
The development could mark a new phase in Messi’s football career, extending his influence from the pitch into the ownership and management of a professional club.
