Lionel Messi has reached an agreement in principle to become the new owner of Spanish second-division side CD Eldense, the club has confirmed.

"At this time, the operation is pending completion of the final legal and contractual procedures, including the corresponding due diligence process, as well as the mandatory authorisation from the High Council for Sports (CSD)," Eldense said in a statement.

The Argentina legend and Inter Miami forward is close to completing a deal to purchase 100 percent of the shares held by Colombian investment group TH Soluciones Group SAS, the current majority shareholder. Reports in Spain said the deal is expected to be completed in the coming days.

Messi, 39, is poised to become the majority owner of a second club in Spain. He previously purchased fifth-tier side UE Cornella on April 16 this year. Cornella have a reputation for success in grassroots and youth football, with a number of academy graduates going on to join Messi's former club Barcelona.

Due to Spain's strict salary limit rules, Messi will be unable to invest heavily in signing players for Eldense.

Messi is one of several high-profile figures in Spanish football to have become a club owner. Former teammate Gerard Pique's Kosmos group own Andorra, who also compete in Spain's second tier.

Real Madrid forwards Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe are part of investment groups that hold majority stakes at Alverca in Portugal and SM Caen in France, respectively.

Messi is also set to receive a stake in his current club Inter Miami following the expiry of his playing contract.