Lionel Messi has agreed a deal to take over Spanish second-tier club Eldense, marking another major move into football ownership by the Argentina superstar.
The agreement, which is subject to due diligence and approval from Spain’s National Sports Council, will see Messi become involved in the running of the club currently owned by Colombian investment group Grupo TH.
According to ESPN, Eldense’s takeover process is expected to be completed once all regulatory requirements are met.
The move would make Eldense the second Spanish club linked to Messi’s ownership portfolio after he acquired Barcelona-based fifth-tier side Cornella in April 2026.
However, unlike Cornella, which remains a semi-professional club, Eldense compete in Spain’s professional football system and currently play in the second division.
Messi, who is still an Inter Miami player, has also invested in Uruguayan club Deportivo LSM alongside former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez.
Eldense, founded in 1921, spent most of its history outside Spain’s top two divisions before returning to the second tier in 2023 after nearly six decades.
The club were relegated in 2025 but regained promotion this summer.
The takeover could face regulatory challenges, as Spanish football authorities may not allow two clubs under the same ownership group to compete in the same division.
Eldense have endured a difficult start to the new season, failing to win any of their opening four matches and recently parting ways with coach Claudio Barragán.
If completed, the deal would represent Messi’s first ownership move involving a professional Spanish club as he begins building a future beyond his playing career.
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