LIONEL MESSI is “seriously considering Barcelona future”, according to reports in Spain – and can leave for FREE next summer.
The Argentine legend is out of contract at the Nou Camp in June 2021.
Marca claim Messi is ‘seriously considering his future at Barcelona’
Messi could quit Barcelona this summer after a shambolic 2019-20 seasonCredit: Manu Fernandez
Messi was thought to be in talks over a two-year contract extension, but those talks were put on hold after surrendering the LaLiga title.
But Messi, now aged 33, is reportedly tempted to quit this summer in one last, desperate bid to win the Champions League, according to Marca.
Manchester City have been linked with a move – with Pep Guardiola said to be eyeing up a reunion.
They are the early favourites with the bookies to sign Messi, too.
This summer could end being a defining one for Barcelona – who have already implemented major changes, with more to comes.
Quique Setien has been sacked, replaced by Ronald Koeman.
Director Eric Abidal was also given the boot after a turbulent season on the Barca board.
All but six players are on the transfer list this summer, too – with Messi one of those deemed untouchable.
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu revealed Messi “wants to end his career” at the club.
He made the announcement while confirmed Koeman would take charge following Setien’s sacking.
Bartomeu said: “Messi wants to end his career at Barca.
“I regularly speak to him and his father. He’s part of our project.
“Koeman will be the new manager and he told me that Messi is a key player for our new project.”
Man City are the favourites to sign Messi this summer
Messi is claimed to have demanded a transfer THIS summer after his side’s appalling 8-2 defeat against Bayern Munich.
And the latest reports from Spain have only fuelled speculation of a 2020 exit further.
Earlier this week, other reports in Spain claimed Messi will leave at the end of next season, in 2021.
Barcelona president confirms Ronald Koeman as new boss and says Lionel Messi is staying
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
