Lionel Messi has not shown for Barcelona’s PCR tests as the Argentine superstar is forcing to leave the club this summer.

Messi was due to arrive at Barca’s training ground at 10:30 am for the tests as the team prepares to start pre-season camp on Monday.

The rest of the squad, including Luis Suarez who has been linked with an exit, are present.

The development follows revelations that the skipper and the club hierarchy are engaged in a serious row.

The situation between the two parties has deteriorated massively in recent months, with the player angry over the decisions made under president Josep Maria Bartomeu, such as the sale of Neymar and their refusal to buy him back, and the sacking of manager Ernesto Valverde earlier this year.

Messi informed the chiefs last Tuesday that he wants to leave Nou Camp this summer, but the club is reluctant to negotiate any exit.

He called for a meeting on Friday and the executive board refused to attend.

It’s understood Barca are not willing to release him and they are hoping to convince their captain to sign another deal as the current one is expiring next year June.