Lionel Messi has penned a two-year contract extension with Barcelona, the Spanish and European champions announced on Friday. The Argentinean forward's new deal, which includes a buyout clause worth €250 million, will run until 2016. "It's a huge piece of news for the club and the player that Messi can renew his contract," Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola told a news conference. "People go to the stadiums to see good football and the fact that Barca has some of the best players in the world like Messi is a privilege." The Catalans' president Joan Laporta said recently that Messi would be the club's best-paid player. The 22-year-old was an inspirational figure last season as Barcelona won the treble – the Primera Liga, the Champions League and the Spanish Cup. He is a firm favorite to win the 2009 FIFA World Player of the Year award.