Journalist Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Lionel Messi has remained defiant and ‘will not change his mind’ as he is still insistent on a move away from Barcelona, despite the recent statement from La Liga.
The Argentina international was part of the Barcelona outfit which was completely dismantled by Bayern Munich 8-2 in the quarter-final of the UEFA Champions League a couple of weeks ago.
Following a rare trophyless campaign for the Spanish side, Messi has informed the club about his desire to leave after spending the entirety of his career thus far at the Camp Nou.
La Liga released an official statement this weekend which made it clear that the 33-year-old’s astronomical release clause of €700 million would have to be matched by any suitors who want to lure him away from Barcelona.
Messi also after La Liga statement is not going to chance his mind. He wants to leave and to start a new chapter. Barcelona told him again they won’t let Leo go for free to Manchester City – and La Liga position is part of their strategy. The saga is on. 🚨🇦🇷 #Messi #FCB #MCFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2020
Despite the Spanish top-flight’s insistence that Messi cannot be allowed to leave on a free transfer – going against a now expired clause in his contract – the forward is not giving in just yet.
Italian journalist Romano claims the 33-year-old is willing to battle La Liga’s stance as he remains keen on leaving Barcelona this summer.
It remains to be seen whether any club will be able to afford the full price of Messi’s clause if he is indeed to be sold by Barcelona.