The move comes after Ronaldo bought a 25 per cent stake in fellow Spanish second-tier side Almeria earlier this year. With both stars now moving into club ownership, their famous football rivalry could continue in a different form after their playing careers come to an end.

Football superstar and Argentina legend Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to buy Spanish second-tier club Eldense, potentially adding a new chapter to his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo beyond their playing careers. Messi is set to acquire 100 per cent of Eldense if the deal is completed, although the takeover still needs regulatory approval and is subject to due diligence.

The move comes after Ronaldo bought a 25 per cent stake in fellow Spanish second-tier side Almeria earlier this year. With both stars now moving into club ownership, their famous football rivalry could continue in a different form after their playing careers come to an end.

Messi’s representatives are carrying out due diligence, while the proposed takeover also needs approval from Spain's High Council for Sports (CSD). If completed, the Inter Miami star would become the sole owner of the club.

The agreement involves the Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group, which currently owns the shares in Eldense. Spanish publication AS reported that Messi's team had been in talks with the group before the agreement in principle was reached. The final completion of the deal will depend on the remaining legal and contractual steps.