La Liga: Messi can only leave, if release clause paid

MADRID, Spain

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi is obliged to pay €700 million ($828.2 million) if he terminates his contract unilaterally with Barcelona, La Liga said.

"Messi is obliged to pay his release clause -- €700 million ($828.2 million) -- if he unilaterally terminates his contract under the current rules," La Liga said on Sunday.

Messi previously sent a certified burofax to the Spanish side to allow his departure on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old player missed the team's coronavirus test due to a contract dispute with Barcelona.

Messi renewed his deal with Barcelona in 2017, and his contract is set to conclude on June 30, 2021.

*Writing by Muhammed Enes Calli