Pique ready to give up eye watering sum Barcelona reportedly still owe him

The 35-year-old announced on Thursday he will hang up his boots for good, after the club's next clash against Almeria on Saturday.

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Now, according to reports in Spain, the veteran centre-back has given the financially ailing outfit a parting gift.

Pique, who is one of the highest earners, has reportedly decided to walk away from the remainder of his contract, which includes a hefty amount of back payments.

He had 18 months remaining on his current deal, which was due to end in June 2024.

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According to newspaper Sport, the remainder of Pique's contract would have set the Catalan club back a whopping £46m.

"Pique understands our fair play situation, the wage bill requires an adjustment, he knows that and he is very willing to help the club," Barcelona's club president Joan Laporta said, while also praising his contribution to the side's history.

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"The exit agreement is being finalised, but there is a great attitude of the player to help."

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The Spain international has found game time limited this season under Barca boss Xavi, starting just five matches this campaign - but has made 615 first-team appearances for Barca.

Pique posted a video on Thursday confirming his imminent retirement from playing football.

"I have always said that after Barca there would be no other team, and so it will be. This Saturday will be my last game at the Camp Nou," he said.

"A lot of people have been talking about me for weeks, months. So far, I haven't said anything, but now I'll be the one to talk about me.

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"I've always been from Barcelona, I was born into a very soccer and very passionate family. From a very young age, I didn't want to be a soccer player, I wanted to be a Barcelona player.

"Lately, I have thought a lot about that boy, what the little Gerard would have thought if he had been told that he would fulfil all his dreams, that he would reach the first team of Barcelona, he would be champion of Europe, and of the world.

"That he would play with the best in history, that he would be one of the captains, that he would make friends forever."

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Pique added: "It's been 25 years since I joined Barcelona, I left and came back. Football has given me everything. Barca has given me everything. You, Cules, have given me everything. And now that that child's dreams have been fulfilled, I have decided that it is time to close the circle…

"I will become one more Cule, I will encourage the team and transmit the love for the team to my children, just as my family did with me. And you know me, sooner or later, I'll be back. See you at the Camp Nou. Visca el Barca, always."