Barcelona Transfer News: Lionel Messi Exit Fears Emerge, Latest Rumours

Lionel Messi could reportedly "consider" a sensational move away from Barcelona at the end of his current contract after "losing patience" in Spain due to his long-running saga with the country's tax authorities regarding his alleged tax avoidance.

The news comes from Spanish outlet Fichajes (h/t Metro's Mark Brus), which reported Messi could be set for a 2018 exit from the Catalan giants.

According to the BBC, Messi and father Jorge will stand trial for allegedly avoiding over €4 million in taxes—a charge they both deny—which, as Brus noted, could result in jail time for the pair if found guilty.

Emilio Morenatti/Associated Press

The forward has shown little sign of slowing down on the field and will only be 31 at the end of his contract, so he will undoubtedly still have much to offer. However, it doesn't seem likely the Argentinian will be leaving Barca, nor would they ever let him depart on a free transfer.

Messi has been plying his trade at the Camp Nou since 2001, and he has spoken in the past of his desire to finish his glittering career with the club. Per the Blaugrana's official website, he said: "I want to retire here. While people want me, I want to spend my whole career at FC Barcelona."

The 28-year-old is currently facing a spell on the sidelines with an injury, but his form has been exceptional this year. He racked up 53 goals in all competitions last season, along with 23 assists in 51 appearances, helping Barca to win a historic treble.

Messi's undeniable love for the club and their reverence of him in return ensures he'll almost certainly get his wish and retire with Barcelona.

In the future, Messi could be lining up alongside Bayer Leverkusen star Karim Bellarabi.

Martin Meissner/Associated Press

According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t the Daily Star's Alex Wood), Barca believe the winger is a strong candidate to replace Pedro after the Spaniard left for Chelsea in the summer.

The German bagged 12 goals and nine assists in all competitions last season. Here are some of his impressive highlights from an outstanding campaign:

As WhoScored.com demonstrates, Bellarabi is an exceptional dribbler who is committed to pressing high up the field:

Football writers Cristian Nyari and Clark Whitney are among his admirers:

Bellarabi's speed and technical ability would see him make a worthy replacement for Pedro.

Barca will be free to sign players once again next year, and if they choose to go in for the 25-year-old, the opportunity to step up to an elite club will surely prove tempting for him.

As Wood noted, Bellarabi still has five years left on his current deal with Bayer though, so any club wanting to snap him up will need to part with a hefty transfer fee to do so.