Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu is confident that Lionel Messi will extend his stay at the club.

The Argentine’s current contract runs until 2021, but Bartomeu is confident his relationship with the club will last forever.

“Leo Messi will continue with us,” Bartomeu told Marca. “He is a club player and the relationship will continue forever.”

Jordi Alba – a vital cog in Barcelona’s success under Ernesto Valverde – will be out of contract in the summer of 2020 and is seeking a fresh contract at the club.

The president maintained he has offered the Spaniard an extension and hopes he will stay at the club.

“He has told us that he wants to continue,” Bartomeu said. “We have offered him a new contract over five years and I hope we will continue discussing the deal.”

Bartomeu also confirmed Barcelona boss Valverde will stay at the helm beyond this season, regardless of the number of trophies they win.

“I believe he will stay.” Bartomeu stated. “He trusts his players and it is only his second season in charge.

“The goal is to finish the season strong and win everything. I trust him to lead the team and even if we do not win anything, he will continue to coach the team.”