A NOU START Could Lionel Messi really leave Barcelona? Here are five reasons why a move away from the Nou Camp is more likely than ever Argentine star has a contract until the summer of 2018 but is seriously considering his options for the first time

SEEING Lionel Messi in any other colours apart from the famous stripes of Barcelona seems difficult to imagine.

But for the first time in the Argentine’s remarkable career, a move away from the Nou Camp seems more likely than ever.

After stalling on signing a new contract and a messy fallout with the Spanish authorities, the unsettled 29-year-old is thought to be seriously considering his next move.

Keep up to date with ALL the Barcelona news, gossip and transfers on our club page

With the magician available to leave Barcelona on a free in little over 18 months, SunSport reveal five reasons why Messi is planning a new future.

Tax case

In July, Messi and his father, Jorge, both received a 21-month jail sentence for tax evasion.

It was revealed that the duo had offshore accounts in Uruguay and Belize in order to hide nearly £4million worth of his income from image rights.

Although he avoided ending up behind bars, Messi is thought to be furious with the verdict and is considering leaving the country as a result.

Barcelona have held series of meetings with Jorge in order to agree a new contract with Messi but as the maestro holds all the cards, he is refusing to commit to the Catalan side.