Messi was in fantastic form once again for Barcelona this season, scoring a staggering 51 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions for the Catalan club. The Argentine forward also registered an outrageous 18 assists in an age-defying campaign, with the 31-year-old continuing to provide jaw-dropping attacking returns. However, new research from CIES Football Observatory only ranks Messi as the fourth most expensive footballer currently playing in the ‘big five’ European Leagues. Using a unique algorithm that takes into account a wide range of variables including age, contract status, position, minutes, goals, international status and team results, the Barca talisman is valued at €167.4million (£148.9m).

Source: Express June 14, 2019 04:45 UTC