Lionel Messi wants to finish career at Barcelona and will only quit in next three to four years, says Josep Bartomeu
LIONEL MESSI wants to finish his career at Barcelona, according to club president Josep Bartomeu.
The Barca chief allayed fans’ fear the Argentine superstar could look to quit the Nou Camp after a turbulent campaign.
The Catalan giants’ skipper voiced his displeasure as Barca surrendered their La Liga crown to rivals Real Madrid last season.
Rumours of a public rift with both team-mate Antoine Griezmann and manager Quique Setien suggested things weren’t all rosy.
And the 33-year-old is being linked with a sensational move to Inter Milan as Antonio Conte’s side attempt to mirror the effect of Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Juventus.
Six-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi’s deal expires next summer and he is yet to put pen to paper on an extension.
But Bartomeu is adamant Barca’s talisman will not be leaving for free next year.
He told beIN SPORTS: “It’s not just me who says it, Messi says it himself.
“He wants to finish his professional playing career at Barcelona and it’s the only club for him.
“I don’t have any doubt that when he finishes his football career in three or four years it will be here at Barcelona.
“Messi has it very clear. He’s been here since he was a kid, he knows the colours and is a part of the club’s history.
“He is the best player in the world. Not just right now, but in the history of the game.
“He’s at Barcelona and has made clear he wants to stay here.”
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Despite Bartomeu’s reassuring words, Inter are reportedly ready to offer the Argentine a four-year deal worth a staggering £235million.
Barcelona host Napoli in the second leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie tomorrow night with the game poised at 1-1.
A run in Europe could help offset some of this season’s damage but there are even reports that Setien will be fired if his side do not lift the trophy.