Tuesday, 11th February, 2014
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has refused to put a timescale on the possible contract renewals of either Lionel Messi or coach Gerardo Martino amid growing speculation.
Martino, in particular, was subject to rumours last year that he was would be shipped out in the winter having only taken charge last summer.
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Meanwhile, Messi's future came under some scrutiny during his injury period, when a club chief claimed they were under no obligation to offer the Argentine an extension.
Barcelona have long said Messi will not only remain at the club, but that he will also maintain his status as the world's best-paid player even as rumours flew of Paris Saint-Germain mounting a spectacular bid.
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And when asked about the forward's renewal status, Bartomeu said via Catalan daily Sport: "I reaffirm what I have said: He is the best player in the world and we want him to continue as such.
"Leo is eager to play and make a difference. As for the renewal, we will talk about it when the time comes.
"[Martino] is doing a great job.
"He has a contract until 2015, but this is not the time to sit down and talk about renewals."
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