Barcelona have inserted a €700 million release clause into Lionel Messi’s new contract – to stop a repeat of Neymar’s shocking exit from the Nou Camp.
La Liga giants made the official call on Saturday: Messi has signed on to stay at Barcelona until 2021, potentially wrapping up his legendary career at the club he loves.
Barcelona have boldly shown their commitment by slapping a massive release clause on Messi’s contract – an eye-watering €700 million – more than double the €300 million PSG paid to snap up Neymar just last summer.
Coach Ernesto Valverde commented: “I’m not a clauses expert, but when you see what happened with Neymar, you realise everything is possible.”
“Many said no one would ever meet such a clause, but it happened.”
Club president Josep Maria Bartomeu also weighed in, highlighting the financial evolution of the football world that led to this decision.
“This new contract better reflects the current and ever-changing landscape of football, compared to the deal we signed back in June, which already showcased Messi’s greatness as a player.”
“The buy-out clause had to be updated, rising from €300 million to €700 million.”
© TEAMtalk Media
