FC Barcelona have confirmed on Thursday evening that Lionel Messi will not continue with the club.
The news comes after reports that the two parties had failed to reach an agreement on a new deal.
However, Barcelona have released a statement saying there was agreement on a new contract but it is not possible for it to be signed due to financial rules imposed by La Liga
BARCELONA STATEMENT IN FULL
Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of financial and structural obstacles (Spanish Liga regulations).
As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled.
FC Barcelona wholeheartedly expresses its gratitude to the player for his contribution to the aggrandisement of the club and wishes him all the very best for the future in his personal and professional life.