Messi Rejects New Barcelona Contract

Lionel Messi has turned down Barcelona’s offer of a new contract worth between £25m-30m a year.

Spanish newspaper, AS, reports that the 28-year-old wants an improved offer from the club.

Messi’s current deal at the Nou Camp runs out in June 2018 and he has been in discussions with the La Liga champions over an extension for months.

However, negotiations between Messi’s father and agent, Jorge and Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu, have not been concluded.

But despite the initial contract rejection, AS reports that a deal is still likely to be struck over the coming weeks.

It is understood that Messi is ready to hold out, especially given the recent contracts given to team-mates Luis Suarez and Neymar.