Lionel Messi reaches agreement to acquire Spanish club CD Eldense

Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to acquire 100% of the shares of CD Eldense, a club currently competing in Spain's Segunda División. The deal involves purchasing the club from the Colombian-led TH Soluciones Group S.A.S.

The transaction is pending legal completion and formal approval from Spain's High Council for Sports (CSD). If finalized, this would mark Messi's first ownership of a professional Spanish club, following his acquisition of the fifth-tier side UE Cornellà earlier this year. While Spanish regulations regarding multi-ownership exist, the current divisional gap between the two clubs prevents an immediate conflict of interest.

The news has generated significant local excitement in Elda, though some fans have expressed uncertainty regarding the business viability of the project. Commercial interest is already surging, with at least 11 brands reportedly exploring sponsorship opportunities following the announcement. Despite the potential for increased visibility, Messi will still be subject to Spain's strict salary-cap regulations regarding squad investment.