Ok this is how I interpret the contract. Messi renewed in 2017 until 2021 with a buy back clause of 700M. However before the final season Messi can unilaterally terminate the contract & leave where he wants.

The issue is that Messi & Barca don't agree with the dates.

For Barca it's too late & for Messi because of Covid he's still in the time frame. This can be settled by an external judge. In the meantime Messi can sign for City while the judge determines the verdit.

Here's the plot-twist: if Messi is wrong, THERE IS NO 700M RELEASE CLAUSE.

There would be a penalty determined by the judge based on Leo's salary. With 1 year left, at 33yo, I don't think it'd be more than 120 tbh.

So if Leo decides to unilaterally terminate the contract, he'll either leave for free or for, lets say, 120M. The loser here? Barca

This is why Leo sent the Burofax & didn't attend the PCR tests. That plan is still ongoing.

However, Leo is trying to convince Barca to negotiate so that Barca can get a better deal (probably 150M + 2 players) & both parties can avoid going to court.

HE'S DOING BARCA A FAVOR.

But once again the fans & journalists are being manipulated (doesn't take much when you're stupid tbh) & Leo is the bad guy now.

OMG how can he not go to the PCR test???? He's disrespecting the badge???

How come people are so tensed when it comes to Leo's futile obligations?

But when Bartomeu dragged the club to court to protect himself in the Neymar saga that was acceptable? He was doing the badge a favour? What about the FIFA case? The Aspire academy pumping? And many many other events.

Go be happy Leo, far away from this miserable club.