Lionel Messi open to Arsenal transfer

Argentine sensation Lionel Messi would prefer a switch to the Emirates once he calls quits on his Barcelona career.

The 28-year-old has won everything within reach at the Catalan giants, and has been tipped to earn his fifth Ballon d'Or title.

Messi is understood to be considering his future at Camp Nou as he faces a trial along with his father Jorge for failing to pay fees in excess of £1.3m to the Spanish tax authorities.

The Star now suggests that the talented attacker would prefer to join the Gunners, should he opt for a move to England.

It is added that Messi would demand substantial wages in the region of £600,000-a-week for a deal to go through.

Messi's existing deal at Barca has a staggering £175m release clause.