In what is rather bizarre news, Lionel Messi's contract at Barcelona has officially expired, which means he has technically become a free agent!
With it now being 1 July, the 34-year-old's deal with the Spanish giants has run down, despite the club seemingly being confident he will commit his future to the Blaugrana.
Messi attempted to leave the Catalan giants in the transfer window ahead of the past season, but ultimately stayed at the Camp Nou after former president Josep Maria Bartomeu refused to grant him his wish of an exit.
With his contract having now officially expired, there are growing concerns the six-time Ballon d'Or winner will use this opportunity to move on from Barcelona, although the LaLiga side is believed to be convinced he will sign a nee deal before the 2021/22 season kicks off.
Chief Joan Laporta has consistently encouraged calm among the fanbase throughout this saga, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano having also claimed that Messi will not be leaving his boyhood club at this point.
A recent report in the Daily Mail suggested that negotiations over a new contract could continue into next week, although an announcement is likely to be imminent to avoid a media frenzy.
If he does depart Barca, Messi will do so having made an incredible 778 appearances, having contributed to 977 goals and having claimed an unmatched 35 trophies.
