Barcelona delays Lionel Messi’s contract

Lionel Messi after handing in his transfer just 12 months ago has agreed to stay at Camp Nou for two more years. But the club’s crippling debt has forced their hands and Joan Laporta states that Barca needs to sell players before securing Messi's future even if he would continue with a pay cut next season. The Catalan's financial situation is no secret but they need to respect UEFA's Financial Fair Play rules.

Barcelona has already inked a deal with Manchester City duo Eric Garcia and Sergio Aguero on free transfers but could not bag Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum due to lack of funds but they hope to sign Lyon captain Memphis Depay on a free transfer. Messi still remains a priority, he could even reach the 700 goals mark for the La Liga giants next season after netting 38 last term.