Barcelona Transfer Rumors & News: Lionel Messi Agrees to Contract Extension
FC Barcelona put an end to the talks suggesting that they are considering moving Lionel Messi this summer, announcing that they have reached a new deal with the star forward.
Recent reports indicated that Messi, whose current deal will end in June 2018 and has a €250-million release clause, has been in deep negotiations with Barcelona about a new deal.
Barcelona then confirmed on Thursday night that they have reached a new deal with Messi, which will be signed by both parties over the next few days.
"FC Barcelona has reached an agreement to adjust the terms in the contract binding Leo Messi to the club as a professional first team player. The revised and updated contract will be signed over the next few days," the club said in a statement.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed by the club, but it is expected to make him the best-paid player in the world, surpassing Real Madrid striker Cristiano Ronaldo. According to El Pais, the updated contract could be worth €20 million per season, and will run until after the 2019 season.
The new deal will kill talks about a possible transfer this summer. Previous reports indicated that Barcelona have been reluctant to offer a new deal to the 26-year-old forward, and are planning to use the €250 million release clause to overhaul their roster this summer.
According to reports, several top-tier clubs, including Manchester City, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid were all willing to spend huge money to acquire the Argentina international.
Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino expressed relief upon learning about a new deal, which would help the team focus in their upcoming title decider against Atletico Madrid on Saturday at Camp Nou.
"These are matters that will help bring tranquility for Leo and for the club. Obviously anything that is good for him is good for us. It will help him to bring us more on the pitch. Whatever is good for Leo is good for Barcelona," Martino said.