It seems unlikely that Lionel Messi will make his debut for Inter Miami before the conclusion of July, and fans will need to exercise patience even for the formal introduction of the player.

Messi disclosed on Wednesday that he has made a decision regarding his future club after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end.

His words that “I’ve taken the decision that I am going to Miami” set off a wave of excitement among fans in the United States.

The caveat, along with ongoing obligations to the Argentine national team, is why Messi's admirers in the States will have to wait after his bombshell statement that "I don't have (the deal) 100% sealed."

While ticket prices for upcoming games that could involve Messi are already rocketing and the player’s global fan base flocks to the social media accounts of Inter Miami, plenty of work remains to be done on the deal, a person familiar with the negotiations told AFP.

To join MLS, Messi must first sign a contract, which could take some time given the peculiar rules and structure of the North American league.

There are a number of difficulties in his contract that will require the attention of lawyers on both sides under the collective bargaining agreement that the MLS operates with its players union. This agreement covers compensation and pay ceilings.

Another degree of intricacy is added by the fact that Messi's contract reportedly includes a revenue-sharing component with Apple TV, which broadcasts MLS games internationally via their MLS Season Pass.

Inter Miami have not released a statement announcing the deal beyond an initial social media post, and the club has not reacted to inquiries for comment, indicating a desire to get the deal signed and sealed before blowing the champagne corks.

After Messi's conversation with the Spanish media, the only remark from MLS was carefully phrased.

“We are pleased that Lionel Messi has stated that he intends to join Inter Miami and Major League Soccer this summer. Although work remains to finalize a formal agreement, we look forward to welcoming one of the greatest soccer players of all time to our League,” said the league.