Lionel Messi is allowed to leave FC Barcelona on a free transfer basis according to consistent media reports. Although the contract stipulates a repayment of 700 million euros, the Argentine insisted on renewing his contract in 2017 to be able to unilaterally terminate the contract on 30 June. This is reported by several Spanish media. The contract of the 32-year-old is valid until 30 June 2021.
Messi's team-mate Gerard Piqué confirmed to the radio station "El Laguero" the reports. "I already knew that Messi can go on a free transfer at the end of each season," said the Spaniard. "But we all know what tie Leo has to the club, so I'm not worried," Piqué continued.
Also the Catalan newspaper "El Periódico" wrote on Friday, Messi have no intention to leave the club. The superstar but insisted on the clause to be able to exercise influence on the purchasing policy.
Desire for Neymar was not fulfilled
Messi has been playing for the professional team of FC Barcelona since 2004 and is the longest-serving player in the club. According to media reports, the five-time world footballer this summer had urged in his club leadership that the Brazilian Neymar after two years at Paris Saint-Germain is brought back to Barcelona. This wish could not be fulfilled.
Although Barcelona have won seven Primera División titles in the past ten years, the last triumph in the Champions League is four years back. In the current season Barcelona occupies eighth place with only four points from three matches. Messi was not used because of an injury.
