Josep Maria Bartomeu: 'Lionel Messi exit talk is false'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has firmly denied suggestions that Lionel Messi could leave the Catalan outfit.

A number of Spain-based journalists have claimed in recent weeks that the Argentine is considering his future at Camp Nou amid threats of jail due to reported tax evasion.

Messi and his representatives have firmly denied any wrongdoing, but it is thought that the 28-year-old could leave Spain over the issues, with a move to the Premier League often discussed.

However, Bartomeu has told 8TV: "People who say Messi is leaving Barcelona should be embarrassed.

"Leo and his father said they don't imagine playing at another club. The relationship with the family is very good. We are not in the negotiation phase yet, when the time comes it will be presented.

"He has a contract for the next three seasons. Messi is very angry about the Spanish taxation. It is not normal, the information published on Leo Messi. If his tax advisers have made a mistake they have to pay like everyone else. Messi deserves respect as all do."

Messi is currently on the sidelines with knee ligament damage, but is expected to return to action before the end of November.