BREAKING: Barcelona Confirm Lionel Messi Departure

After contract talks fell through, Barcelona have officially confirmed Lionel Messi's departure.

After his previous contract expired in July, the Argentine, who has spent his entire professional career at the Nou Camp since making his debut in 2004, was expected to sign a new term.

However, the Catalan giants have now confirmed that their all-time leading scorer will leave the club for free.

The club statement read: “Despite FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi having reached an agreement and the clear intention of both parties to sign a new contract today, this cannot happen because of financial and structural obstacles (Spanish Liga regulations)."

“As a result of this situation, Messi shall not be staying on at FC Barcelona. Both parties deeply regret that the wishes of the player and the club will ultimately not be fulfilled."

The problems appear to be financial, since Barcelona has been forced to reduce the wage cost even after Messi consented to a 50% pay cut from last season.

Messi, on the other hand, is said to be irritated by the team's direction under coach Ronald Koeman and will not commit himself to a weak group.

He is coming off a Copa America victory with Argentina and has other options, including PSG and Manchester City.