Transfer Centre

Barcelona's Lionel Messi 'plans to remain at top level for two more years'

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 04 May 2021

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi reportedly sees himself playing at the top level for another two years before he seeks out a move to the MLS.

Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi is reportedly keen to keep plying his trade at the top level for another two years.

There is said to be growing optimism at Camp Nou that Messi will put pen to paper on an extension, but as things stand he is due to become a free agent in under two months' time.

The Argentine continues to be linked with a summer transfer to either Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain, but the latter are reportedly prioritising a new deal for Kylian Mbappe over a move for Messi.

According to CAT Radio, Barca president Joan Laporta laid out his vision for Barcelona's future during a meeting at Messi's house, and the six-time Ballon d'Or winner wants to be central to the Blaugrana's success for the next two years.

Messi would then supposedly head to the MLS to finish his glittering career when he turns 36, but Laporta is thought to have left the meeting feeling positive about the club's chances of keeping Messi on the books for next season.

The La Masia graduate has scored 36 goals and set up 14 more in 44 games across all competitions this season, and Barca sit two points adrift of leaders Atletico Madrid in the race for La Liga glory.