Zidane wants Messi to stay in Spain despite Barcelona exit reports

Argentina great Lionel Messi is reportedly planning to leave Barcelona next year, however, Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane wants the striker to stay in Spain.

Messi’s current contract will run out next year and he has halted extension negotiation due to frustrations with the direction of the club, said Spanish radio station Cadena Ser.

Defending champions sit at second on La Liga table four points behind rivals Real Madrid.

"I don't know what will happen but we hope not because he is in this league and we want the best in this league," said Real coach Zidane afterwards, when asked about the possibility of Messi leaving.

Messi said in February he did not believe Barcelona could win the Champions League on current form.

The 33-year-old also reported to has had disagreements with the board, reacting publicly when sporting director Eric Abidal appeared to blame the players for the sacking of Ernesto Valverde in January.

Barcelona's presidential elections are due to be held in 2021, when current president Josep Maria Bartomeu will have to step aside.

Among those set to run against Bartomeu's successor is Victor Font, who wants to appoint Messi's former team-mate Xavi Hernandez as coach.