Messi officially becomes a free agent
The 34-year-old Argentine's deal ended as June drew to a close, making him able to sign with any other club if he chooses.
Sebastian Nkrumah Listowell 
Lionel Messi’s contract with Barcelona has expired and now the 34-year-old Barca star is a free agent.
Although the Blaugrana were hopeful of signing Messi to renewal before the June 30 deadline, the 34-year-old is now officially unattached.
Barcelona still believes that Messi will eventually sign a new deal, but his status as a free agent will generate concern among the club's fans and management.
Reports revealed that both sides continue to discuss economic and tax-related issues in relation to Messi's contract, as well as the player's image rights.
In addition to any financial considerations, Messi is looking for assurances that the club will be able to build a competitive team around him in the near future.
Barcelona won the Copa del Rey in 2020-21 but missed out on their two biggest goals - La Liga and the Champions League.
Messi becoming a free agent adds a new layer of complexity to the situation. Should Barcelona re-sign the player, he will have to be registered with La Liga as a new signing.
As a new signing, Barcelona would have to find a creative solution to fit Messi into the framework of La Liga's financial regulations.
La Liga president Javier Tebas has already warned Barca that they must bring their wages down, or they won't be able to register Messi ahead of the 2021-22 season.
