Six-time world player of the year Messi insists he can leave on a free transfer while Barcelona, backed by La Liga, argue that the release clause must be paid. La Liga released a statement on Sunday saying Messi's contract was still valid, days after his shock announcement that he wanted to leave the club in the close season and hours after he failed to attend a pre-season medical. The ruling body said the only way a club can sign the forward is if he triggers a release clause of 700 million euros but Jorge Messi's letter to La Liga president Javier Tebas states that clause is no longer applicable. This compensation will not apply when the termination of the contract by unilateral decision of the player takes effect from the end of the 2019-20 sports season'," he added referring to the clause in the contract. "It is obvious that the compensation of 700 million euros, provided for in the previous clause... does not apply at all."

Source: bd News24 September 04, 2020 13:18 UTC