The Spanish press have reacted to the bombshell news that Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi is now finally free to negotiate with foreign clubs with a view to a summer move.
The 33-year-old looked set to leave the club before the start of the season, only for the board and a threat of a legal case to scupper his wishes, but will now be able to broker a switch.
Marca's striking front page on New Year's Day is emblazoned with the headline 'Messi is free to negotiate', as one of the biggest transfer sagas in recent history sparks back into life.