Lionel Messi is expanding his footprint in European club ownership as representatives for the Argentine star near a total takeover of Spanish Segunda División club CD Eldense, according to reports from Spanish outlets Diario MARCA and Cadena SER.
Negotiations and Ownership Structure
According to reports from Diario MARCA, the intended transaction involves purchasing 100 percent of the club’s shares outright, leaving no room for third-party stakeholders in the ownership structure. The institution, based in the Alicante town of Elda, is currently controlled by an investment group spearheaded by businessman Juan Carlos Trujillo. Trujillo’s administration assumed control of the club’s shares in 2025 following an agreement with previous owner Pascual Pérez.
Legal Hurdles and Municipal Confirmation
While a foundational agreement is in place, the deal has not yet crossed the finish line. As reported by Cadena SER, municipal sources confirmed that the current ownership group formally notified the Town Hall of Elda regarding an active sales operation. However, the club has yet to issue an official public statement confirming Messi as its incoming proprietor. Beyond contractual signatures, the transfer of shares remains subject to formal legal reviews and must secure explicit authorization from Spain’s High Council for Sports (Consejo Superior de Deportes), meaning an official announcement could materialize in the coming days once administrative clearance clears.
Athletic Context and Managerial Transition
The impending administrative shift arrives amid a period of sporting turbulence for the team. CD Eldense secured promotion back to the Segunda División for the 2026-27 campaign after finishing as champions of Group II in the Primera Federación. On the pitch, the club collected just two points from its opening four fixtures of the current campaign. That slow start prompted management to dismiss head coach Claudio Barragán, installing Josep Ferrando as interim manager while the front office evaluates permanent managerial options.
Next Confirmed Checkpoint
CD Eldense continues its Segunda División schedule while awaiting final legal sign-offs from sports authorities and an official announcement from the club regarding the ownership transition.
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