Messi plans Elda training complex after sealing Eldense purchase | OneFootball

Lionel Messi has closed the purchase of Eldense and intends to build a training complex in Elda, with formal ratification still to follow.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, his camp has already floated the plan in informal talks with the municipality.

Upgrading facilities will be an early priority once the agreement is made official. On Tuesday, Carolina Holguín, president and sole shareholder representing Grupo TH, signed the contract transferring control. A new board is being formed and her departure is imminent.

The deal awaits completion of due diligence, a full audit of the accounts, and the mandatory authorisation of the Consejo Superior de Deportes for acquisitions above 25 percent. Messi’s investment, amount undisclosed, is held in escrow until both steps conclude.

A legal claim by former owner Pascual Pérez against Holguín, alleging one million euros is owed from a December loan, had cast doubt. The judge has not granted the requested share seizure and both parties remain in talks over this and other disputes.

Eldense have long faced training-site shortages. Since shifting to natural grass in summer 2021, issues at the Nuevo Pepico Amat have forced sessions at Bonalba Resort and Pinatar Arena. Pérez ordered reseeding by the old Pepico Amat, yet facilities still fall short for Segunda División and Tercera RFEF teams.

Built in 2012 for a Tercera División side, the Nuevo Pepico Amat does not cover all LaLiga requirements. A new complex would ease daily demands, and Messi’s team are already studying sites within the municipality.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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