According to reports, Lionel Messi’s desire to remain with Barcelona seems to be very low, as the Argentine superstar has now failed to report for pre-season medical tests at Barcelona on Sunday.
Messi did not show up at the club’s training facility for a Covid-19 screening as he is trying to force a move away from the club.
Other Barcelona first team stars have been arriving at the facility, but Messi is yet to do so, as he seems intent on playing in the Premier League next season.
The six-time Ballon d’Or winner intentionally skipped the tests to reinforce the message that he no longer wishes to be a part of the squad, reports claim.
However, there will be a huge court case awaiting the 33-year-old if he eventually makes a move away from the club, without the club’s consent.
There is a dispute between Messi and Barcelona over his release clause. Barcelona has a clause which allows Messi to leave for free, but it expired on June 10. But Barca would rather hold on to Messi’s release clause of £630m.
Meanwhile, Messi’s camp is arguing that the clause remains active as the coronavirus pandemic halted Barcelona’s season and the club’s campaign did not end until their 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League on August 14.
Chelsea have been linked with the superstar, as well as Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. However, it’s Manchester City who are believed to be favourites for his signature.