INTERNATIONAL: Argentina striker Lionel Messi is leaving Barcelona. This is despite both parties having reached an agreement over a new contract, but Messi changed his mind saying the deal was just too low. The club says its hands were tied because of new restrictions by La Liga.

Barcelona has expressed its deep regret that neither the club’s nor Messi’s wishes could be fulfilled. La Liga recently introduced a “fair play” regulation, limiting the amount clubs can pay top players in order to make things fairer for less valuable clubs at the lower end of the league.

Messi first signalled his intentions to leave Barcelona last August, citing differences with then-club president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, but appeared to be getting along better with new president, Joan Laporta. His departure, announced late on Thursday night has shocked his legions of fans.

Messi has not said where intends to play next but he shouldn’t have too much trouble landing a new gig. He joined Barca's youth set-up at the age of 13, and was the club's all-time top-scorer with 672 goals in 778 matches. He remains one of the biggest names in football.