Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi is all set to stay with Barcelona as the Argentine talisman is likely to sign a five year deal as per reports in La Vanguardia newspaper and ESPN. Messi’s contract with Barcelona ended last month, making him a free agent. There were speculations about the future of Messi in club football in Europe. He was linked with clubs like Paris Saint Germain, Manchester City and Inter Milan. That is likely to be put to rest with the latest development.
Ever since Joan Laporta took over as Barca president, the club has been trying to reduce their wage bill in order to keep Messi and stay within La Liga’s strict financial control rules. The club has been trying to rebuild the squad with several footballers like Junior Firpo, Jean-Clair Todibo and Carles Alena being sold in order to sign free agents like Sergio Aguero, Memphis Depay and Eric Garcia.
La Liga chief Javier Tebas said last week that Barcelona has a total debt of more than 1 billion euros ($1.18 billion). He also made it clear that the Catalan club would not be shown any leniency.
34 year old Messi recently won his first major international title with Argentina over the weekend when they beat rivals Brazil in the Copa America final. He was elected as the player of the tournament and was also the joint top goal scorer with four goals.