Lionel Messi finalises Barcelona contract extension

Barcelona have confirmed that star striker Lionel Messi has committed his future to the Spanish giants by signing a two-year contract extension until 2018.

The Argentina international, who clinched his fourth consecutive Ballon d'Or award in December, was expected to sign a new deal at Camp Nou following reports that he had begun talks over fresh terms with the Catalans.

The club, who announced the news on their official website, have already secured the futures of captain Carles Puyol and influential playmaker Xavi.

Reports have claimed that Messi, whose contract was due to expire in 2016, has had a £216m buy-out clause incorporated into his new deal.