Barcelona face €200 million problem after Messi’s contract renewal — report

The Coronavirus was not kind on the world, and it’s impact extended beyond just the realms of health. For example, football teams and their financial situation was impacted tremendously with the biggest and richest of clubs facing economic turmoil. 

For some, like Barcelona, it is a bigger problem than others. After three consecutive €100 million signings, and a mammoth wage bill, they face severe distress with several departures imminent. However, that list does not include Lionel Messi, who will be handed a new contract very soon. According to RAC1, though, Barcelona will have cut nearly €200 million in salaries once Messi’s contract is renewed. 

Now 34, Leo becomes a free agent in five days. His departure in 2020 was stopped in its tracks by Josep Bartomeu, and his contract could well be on its way to getting a fresh signature. However, keeping the greatest player of all time is bound to come at a huge cost, even after all those salary cuts. 

Consequently, reducing the wage bill becomes priority numero uno for Joan Laporta and co. The likes of Philippe Coutinho, Samuel Umtiti, Sergi Roberto, Martin Braithwaite, and Miralem Pjanic have been deemed as surplus. At the same time, big names with golden paychecks like Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann could also see the backdoor out. 

Barcelona desperately need reinforcements in some positions such as centre-back and left-back. But, the squad is already touching 32 members, including Oscar Mingueza and Inaki Pena, which means before buying anyone, a huge overhaul will need to take place. And soon.