LIONEL MESSI BARCELONA CONDIRM FORWARD IS NOT STAYING AT CLUB DUE TO ECONOMIC OBSTACLES

Messi became a free agent last month after his original contract with Barca expired, though was set to re-sign with the club following positive initial talks between all parties.

Messt was in line for a fresh long-term deal, albeit on lower pay terms. Now, however, the Catalan giants have confirmed the agreement is dead due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish LaLiga regulations).

Lionel Messi will leave Barcelona this summer after an agreement could not be reached.

Issuing a shock statement on Thursday evening, Barcelona said: 'Despite having reached an agreement between FC Barcelona and Leo Messi and with the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, it cannot be formalized due to economic and structural obstacles (Spanish Laliga regulations).

Given this situation, Lionel Messi will not continue linked to FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of both the player and the Club cannot finally be fulfilled.

Barca would like to thank with all its heart the player's contribution to the enhancement of the institution and wishes him the best in his personal and professional life.

Earlier in the evening yesterday August 6, the news had initially been broke via Catalan radio outlet RACI, who noted that Messis situation at Barca had become irreversible.

He is, it was reported, more out of Barca than ever and does not like the current squad!

The 34-year-old is said to have communicated his opinions to the club on Wednesday upon his return to the city, following an old-season holiday with his wife and children.

Yet as the news began to break online and spread like wildfire, Messi's father and agent originally opted to publicly speak out and re-shared a report of Messi impending exit with the simple caption: Lie!

The latest developments will come as a hammer How to returning president Joan Laporta.

Barca had been banking on their talisman and club legend committing the remainder of his career to the Nou Camp, though have been hindered for weeks by their dire financial situation.