Lionel Messi's father Jorge has sent a letter to La Liga denying the interpretation that his son's €700m Barcelona buyout clause still exists.
Jorge claims the massive clause, which Barcelona included in Messi's contract as an insurance, expired at the end of last season.
If this is proven to be the case, then the Argentina international could leave the Camp Nou on a free this month, should all parties reach an agreement.
However, both Barcelona and La Liga agree the clause is "absolutely valid", meaning the legal battle with likely rumble on.
Jorge's statement on behalf of Lionel, reads: "1 - We don't know what contract they've seen and analysed to back up claims only the buyout clause is applicable even if the player decides to unilaterally terminate his contract after the 2019/20 season.
"2 - This must be a major error on their part. As is written in the clause 8.2.3.6 of the contract signed by the club and the player:
"This compensation won't be applied when the player has decided to unilaterally end his contract after the conclusion of the 2019-20 season."
"It's obvious the compensation of 700 million euros, as mentioned in the previous 8.2.3.5 clause, can't be applied at all."
Messi has been strongly linked with a Barcelona exit this summer after growing increasingly disheartened at the club.
He claims he triggered an exit clause in his contract, which he believes he could do as soon as the season ended. Barcelona claim it had to have been triggered before June 10.
The six-time Ballon d'Or winner is not short of suitors, but there are few teams with the financial capacity to sign Messi.
Manchester City emerged as a possible destination for the Argentine, given the financial firepower at the Etihad club's disposal.
Messi has also previously worked alongside City boss Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, and the duo share a good relationship.
Barcelona have been quick to remind the world that Messi has a €700m buyout clause in his contract, and that he wouldn't be allowed to leave for a lesser fee.
But Jorge is challenging this, suggesting Messi is looking at ways in which to leave Barcelona this summer once and for all.
Contrary reports recently emerged in both Spain and Argentina, claiming Messi has had a change of heart in recent weeks.
The forward is due to release a statement in the coming weeks outlining his plans, with some now expecting Messi to announce he will remain at Barcelona for at least another season.
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