Lionel Messi has rejected Barcelona's opening offer of a contract extension worth between €30 million ($33 million) and €35 million ($39 million) per season.
Messi's current deal expires after the 17-18 season.
The two sides are not concerned at this stage about a deal being eventually reached.
Barcelona has recently signed extensions with Luis Suarez and Neymar.
Moises Llorens/As.com