Lionel Messi will not return to Barcelona’s training camp until a new contract is signed

According to reports from Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Lionel Messi hasn’t joined Barcelona’s training camp yet. The Argentine was expected to link up with the club today, following the Copa America victory with his national team, but it appears that the return to club football will have to wait. 

The player is yet to formally sign the contract with Barcelona, although terms for the renewal have already been agreed upon. The main reason behind the delay is due to the wage cap imposed by La Liga on its clubs. Barcelona are significantly above the minimum amount, and will have to cut down on their payroll if they hope to re-sign their captain. 

Emerson Royal and Sergio Aguero were the two other players expected to return to Barcelona following the Copa America, and both have done so. However, Messi’s return will not take place until he has put pen to paper on the new deal. 

Barcelona have several names lined up on their transfer list, with Miralem Pjanic, Samuel Umtiti and Neto among the players who could be sold to make room for the number 10. None of the players are willing to terminate their deal at Camp Nou. Messi has reportedly agreed to a five year deal with the Blaugrana, but is unable to formally join them due to the wage situation. 

It now appears that Messi could be missing out on the initial stages of the league campaign if he does not sign the contract within the next 13 days.