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Josep Maria Bartomeu: 'Lionel Messi deal is very positive news'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu reveals his delight at Lionel Messi's contract extension.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has said that Lionel Messi's contract renewal is "very positive news" for the Spanish champions.

It was confirmed on Friday that the former Ballon d'Or winner had signed a new deal with the Catalan outfit, ending speculation of a move away from the Camp Nou.

"The renewal of Messi is very positive news," he told RAC1.

"Hopefully this will encourage everyone even more. We're all really focused on the match. For some players it's going to be their last game, so we want to make it really special.

"But whatever happens, these players deserve recognition."

It is understood that the deal has made Messi the highest-paid player in world football.

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Matt Law
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Barcelona's Argentinian forward Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring during the Spanish league football match against RCD Espanyol on March 29, 2014
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