Spain's FC Barcelona extended the contract of star striker Lionel Messi until June 30, 2021, the club announced Wednesday, just days after he wed his childhood sweetheart in Argentina.
"The deal will be signed in the coming weeks, when Messi returns to the team for pre-season training," the club said in a statement.
The five-times Ballon d’Or winner has been at Barcelona for close to two decades, rising through their youth system to become one of the most successful and recognisable footballers in the world.
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The talisman’s new release clause is reported to have risen to 300 million euros (Dh1.25bn).
One of the biggest names in sport, the 30-year-old is the all-time top scorer for club and country. His expansive list of honours includes eight Spanish league titles and four Champions League trophies with Barcelona since his senior debut in 2003.
