Messi's Decision Is Made
04 August, 2021
News in Spain suggests that 2021 Copa America winner Lionel Messi has officially come to a decision over his future.
According to Spanish publication Sport, the 34-year-old will renew his stay with Barcelona until 2026 after reaching a final agreement with the club.
It is claimed that all that is now needed is for club president Joan Laporta to reduce the wage bill so that Messi's new contract can be registered legally.
The forward, who got his hands on his first major international trophy in the form of the Copa America last month, is currently on holiday, but it now appears he could be set for a return to training.
Why has an agreement not been reached sooner?
Following the expiration of his deal in June, Laporta revealed there were certain financial hurdles to overcome in order for both parties to agree a new contract ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.
A new salary cap introduced by the league has made it difficult for Barcelona's board to strike a deal with the six-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the club also reportedly unable to register any of its new signings until more players are sold or leave.
Although LaLiga officially returns for the Blaugrana on 15 August, it has also been claimed that Messi will not train with the team until his new contract is announced.
Source: www.soccerladuma.co.za
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