Messi's contract status has filled plenty of column inches in recent months, with the 'has he/ hasn't he' back and forth quickly losing its pantomimic charm.
The Argentinian's deal had been set to expire at the end of the current campaign, but it is now understood that Messi has already signed an extension that will see him remain at the Camp Nou until the summer of 2021.
La Liga president Javier Tebas confirmed as much earlier this week, saying: "Messi has a contract which has been renewed. Contracts are official when they are signed and not when it is announced that they have been signed."
Now, according to Spanish publication 'Mundo Deportivo', the Catalan side are working on a deal similar to that given to Andres Iniesta recently that will see the 30-year-old commit to the club for life.
Barca are keen to repay Messi for his loyalty to the club, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner having turned down interest from elsewhere on a number of occasions so far in his career.
The deal would see Messi move 'upstairs' after he hangs up his boots, with Barca executive Oscar Grau explaining last month: "Messi signed a four-year deal in June, but the club will offer him a lifetime contract.
"The idea is for Leo, who has been here since he was little, to stay here for life because he is an icon. After his playing days we want him to continue to be linked to the club."
Messi has started the season in blistering form for Barca, scoring 12 goals in 11 La Liga game to propel his side to the top of the La Liga table.