For the first time since 2000, Argentine Lionel Messi is without a contract with Barcelona, making him able to move to any club if he wishes. As of the beginning of July, Messi has the freedom to transfer to any club following the expiration of his contract with Barcelona without a renewal, despite reports suggesting that the "flea" might sign a new deal before the end of June.
Doubts have arisen regarding the possibility of Messi renewing his contract with Barcelona at this time, as the player is currently competing in the "Copa America," leading the Argentine national team to the quarter-finals.
**Renewal Talks**
According to a report from the sports website "Goal," both parties are continuing talks to renew Messi's contract, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta communicating with Jorge Messi, the player's father and agent. Given Messi's demands and Barcelona's financial situation, observers believe that renewing the contract remains unfeasible in the near term.
According to "Goal," "the Blaugrana" and Messi's agent are discussing financial and tax-related matters concerning the star's contract, along with intellectual property rights related to his images.
In addition, reports indicate that Messi wants assurances from Barcelona about providing players to form a competitive team capable of winning titles in the upcoming season, noting that the club has not won either the Spanish league or the Champions League this season.
**Increased Complexity**
Messi's transition to a "free agent" adds further complexity to his contract situation. If Barcelona successfully signs him again, they will need to register him in "La Liga" as a new signing, which would impose constraints on the Catalan club to comply with financial regulations of the Spanish league.
Indeed, La Liga president Javier Tebas has warned Barcelona of the necessity to reduce player salaries, or they will not be able to register Messi before the 2021-22 season.
Messi's participation in the "Copa America" complicates his contract renewal further, as the player aims to win the title, knowing that his national team will face Ecuador in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Leaks suggest that Barcelona's management is confident that Messi will sign a new contract, despite the complications associated with the renewal. Renewing Lionel Messi's contract with Barcelona is the big dream for all fans of the Catalan club worldwide, given the significant value of the Argentine star, whose departure would deprive Barcelona of much of its shine and possibly its fan base, should the historic captain decide to end his journey with "the Blaugrana."
