Contract extension: Messi’s dad leaves Barcelona after failed talks

LIONEL MESSI’S dad has left Barcelona following a meeting with the club’s hierarchy, but no progress has been made regarding a new contract, according to reports in Spain.

Jorge, who also acts as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s agent, has returned to Argentina following talks to extend the star’s deal, which expires on June 30, 2018.

Messi Sr. had arrived prior to the 4-0 Champions League hammering against Paris Saint-Germain.

However, AS reported that while the meetings were amicable, the two parties are no nearer an agreement.

And there are concerned voices coming out of the Barcelona camp, with some members of the board worried the talks are taking longer than expected.

While others fear that with every passing day, the deal is becoming more and more expensive for the Catalans.

Messi is understood to want to stay at the Nou Camp, but will not compromise on his wage demands.

He is aware of what Neymar and Luis Suarez earn and is adamant he wants to remain the club’s best-paid player.

While everyone wants the same outcome, the continued stalemate is a concern.

Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat at Valencia has given Barcelona renewed hope of winning a third-consecutive La Liga title.

And the focus has now switched 100 per cent to this weekend’s tricky encounter at Atletico.