DOHA: Barcelona’s superstar Lionel Messi has no plans of leaving the club after reports emerged that the Argentine was set to quit the Catalans at the end of the season over a dispute on contract negotiations, according to media reports.
Media reports emerged last week that according to respected journalist Francois Gallardo, the Barcelona star was reportedly let down by the club when promised bonuses in the past.
“For a month the relationship between Messi’s advisors and the club is null. The player feels betrayed and has decided to leave at the end of the season.
“In fact, he has a verbal agreement with another team and from February or March will begin planning his transfer,” said Gallardo in a report published on Football Espana website.
He added: “In late September, hardly two months ago, a Blaugrana player and his representatives met with Barca. The footballer wanted a revision of his contract with the Catalan club that he was promised would be fulfilled.”
“An increase was agreed. However, after a month the club got in touch with him and explained they were unable to do it.
“The decision is taken. Leo Messi will leave Barca at the end of the season. He will go to a country very close to ours.”
However, according to a report on Goal.com website on Saturday, which cites De Telegraaf, Messi said he was honoured that clubs were interested in him, but insists he is happy at his current club and wants to retire at Barcelona.
He said: “I feel honoured each time my name is mentioned with other big clubs. It’s true that a lot of clubs have shown an interest in me.”
The 26-year-old, who is currently injured, added: “But my opinion has not changed. Barcelona’s style of play suits me and it’s my dream to stay at Barcelona for the rest of my life.”The Peninsula
