Chelsea, Manchester City on red alert as La Liga President opens up on Lionel Messi future

Chelsea and Manchester City are among several clubs on high alert following a breakthrough regarding Lionel Messi’s future.

The two English clubs are reportedly already are on high alert having made initial contact with the 34-year-old, report the Sun.

However, now having heard what Javier Tebas, the President of La Liga, has said regarding Messi’s future, the leading clubs across Europe will be undoubtedly getting their calculators out, devising whether an offer is financially tangible or not.

Speaking to Spanish TV programme, Jugones of la Sexta (via Mundo Deportivo), Tebas claimed that he is unsure as to whether the six-time Ballon d’Or winner will be able to start the forthcoming season at Camp Nou due to the financial fair play restrictions.

Tebas said: “I do not know if Messi will start the League with Barcelona. If there are no exits, it is impossible.”

The Spanish Football Association President continued as he explained the details behind why Messi may find himself entertaining offers from clubs like Chelsea and City.

“One thing is to exceed the salary limit and another that they can incorporate or renew players with the 1×4 rule,” said Tebas. “Every four euros they save, one euro can be incorporated.”

The Argentinian’s three-year bumper contract at Barcelona expired on 30th June following the Catalan side’s financial restraints whereby they are required to reduce their wage bill by €200,000, reports Zach Lowy on Twitter (@ZachLowy).