Messi ‘to stay with Barca’

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu is convinced Lionel Messi will sign a new contract and end his career with the LaLiga champions.

The Argentina star, whose current deal expires in the summer of 2018, has yet to agree new terms, sparking speculation he could leave the Catalan club.

Bartomeu, however, is confident the 29-year-old will remain at the Nou Camp.

Speaking at the announcement of a four-year sponsorship deal with Japanese technology company Rakuten, Bartomeu said: “We’re all convinced, we’re all positive Leo Messi will end his sporting career in Barca.

“All the members of Barca believe this is how it has to be, because he is the player that in the last few years has brought us sporting success.”

Rakuten will replace Qatar Airways on the front of Barca’s shirts from the start of next season and, according to fcbarcelona. com, will earn the club £47 million a year.