Report: Lionel Messi to let Barcelona contract run out

Lionel Messi could let his Barcelona contract run out and make a decision on his future only once his deal expires, according to reports.

The Argentine star, who has spent his entire footballing career at Camp Nou, is tied down to the club until 2018.

According to Marca, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner turned down a contract renewal in July over concerns regarding his tax fraud case.

The report suggests that Messi saw his family unfairly prosecuted and targeted in a smear campaign by the Spanish authorities, with a legal complaint to be heard between January and June 2017.

Messi was given a 21-month sentence after being found guilty of three counts of tax evasion but did not serve jail time.

A number of clubs, including Manchester City, are said to be monitoring the player's situation at Barca.