12 hours ago
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Lionel Messi is cementing his legacy in Barcelona beyond the pitch after acquiring an abandoned €11.5 million (US$13.5 million) commercial complex in the city.
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Lionel Messi during a match for Argentina. Photo by AFP |
Messi purchased the historic Via Wagner gallery through his company, Edificio Rostower.
Located in Turó Park, one of Barcelona's most exclusive and expensive neighborhoods, the property spans approximately 4,000 square meters. The complex has sat vacant since 1993 following disputes between its previous owners.
Messi plans to completely renovate the property from the ground up. Once fully restored, the Via Wagner gallery will be operated as a premium commercial rental property.
According to AS, the ambitious renovation project has already attracted significant interest from several major financial groups, thanks to its commercial potential in the heart of the city.
This latest deal proves that the 38-year-old maintains a profound bond with the city he has called home for more than two decades. Despite currently captaining Inter Miami in the U.S., the Barcelona legend continues to expand his business footprint in Catalonia.
Messi has previously invested heavily in the MiM Hotels chain and the Hincha restaurant franchise. More recently, he made waves in the sports world by acquiring local football club UE Cornellà.
Santomera Bay, the real estate agency that sold Messi the new property, views his continued financial commitment as a massive win for the city of Barcelona, enhancing the city's appeal to international investors, Mundo Deportivo reported.
