Lionel Messi's contract clause that allows him to walk out of Barca for FREE: Explained

Barcelona's worst nightmare has officially come true: captain Lionel Messi has informed club that he wishes to leave Camp u during transfer window. While Barcelona will reportedly try and block any move for ir talisman, a unique clause in his contract allows him to leave Spanish giants on a free transfer. club confirmed to Associated Press that Messi sent a fax document to club demanding y trigger said clause so he can depart Camp u as soon as possible. 

Also Read | Inter Milan 'already' Tried To Woo Lionel Messi With Advert Outside Milan Cadral

Lionel Messi contract details underline financial conundrum for suitors

Barcelona offered a massive four-year deal to Lionel Messi in 2017, which made him highest-paid footballer on planet. Messi makes a reported €8.3 million every month in a deal that runs through June 2021. While Barca offered a significant pay rise to Argentine, y did so in order to thwart interest in ir prized asset from or clubs.

2017 contract extension bumped his buyout to a mammoth €700 million, which is more than double his previous €300 million buyout. club also inserted a special clause in his contract that allows Messi to depart Camp u for free at end of every season. Per reports, Barcelona's captain had until May 31 -  date when domestic season in Europe came to an end - to trigger clause.

Although  clause has technically expired, Messi is looking to lever fact that 2019-20 season ended late due to COVID-19 interruption. As Marca explains, "In ory, this clause had to be activated before June 1, but unusual circumstances of coronavirus-enforced pause in season mean that he may be able to request an exit w in off-season.”

Also Read | Luis Suarez, Carles Puyol Support Lionel Messi's Decision To Leave Barcelona

ultimate decision will, however, be made by club, who will evaluate situation financially and with respect to football, before making a call. Per reports, Barcelona will examine legal repercussions of Messi's request before deciding if y can let 33-year-old depart for free. 

Also Read | Twitter Explodes As Barcelona Reportedly Confirm That Lionel Messi Wants To Leave Club

If Barcelona reject Messi's request citing a variety of reasons, six-time Ballon d'Or winner could hand in a transfer request to facilitate a move away from club. In that scenario, Lionel Messi's massive €700 million buyout clause will come into play, which will, very likely, be roadblock to his transfer. Argentine would n have to spend ar season at Camp u before departing a free nt after expiration of his contract next summer. However, considering club will have presidential elections in March 2021 that could see Xavi take reins at club, situation takes ar turn, in what promises to be a long couple of months for club and Messi.  

Also Read | Messi To Man City? Speculation Gars Pace After Barca Legend Anunces Desire To Leave

(Im Credits: FIFA.com)