Argentina have begun talks over extending Lionel Scaloni's contract, with the football association keen to keep him in charge as the team enters a new era following Lionel Messi's international retirement and defeat in the 2026 World Cup final.

The AFA said president Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia and Scaloni had opened discussions on a new deal, sharing a photograph of the pair together at the Lionel Andres Messi training complex in Ezeiza. Argentine media reported the two sides were close to an agreement.

Scaloni's current deal runs until December this year. Reports suggest any extension could initially run for two years, covering the 2028 Copa America, with an option to extend it further through to the 2030 World Cup in North America.

No official confirmation has been made, but Scaloni will remain in the dugout regardless for Argentina's next three friendlies, against Bolivia on September 30, Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6, the latter serving as Messi's farewell appearance.

Since taking charge after the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Scaloni has delivered two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup, and he has already begun reshaping the squad, calling up youngsters such as Franco Mastantuono, Gianluca Prestianni and Agustin Giay alongside senior regulars.

Roman Vega, Santiago Simon, Lionel Flores and Tobias Andrada have all received maiden call-ups, underlining the association's intent to build around a new generation as the post-Messi rebuild begins in earnest.

Senior players have voiced support for Scaloni staying on. Captain Cristian Romero said the squad hoped he would remain, calling him central to the project, while Leonardo Balerdi described continuing under him as "a special honour" for the group.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez said any decision was ultimately for Scaloni and his staff, adding the players would back whatever he chose, while Nicolas Paz called him "one of the most important coaches" he has worked under.