Lionel Messi 'ready to quit Barcelona as Man United, Chelsea and Manchester City step up interest'

According to reports, the Argentina star, 28, is growing frustrated with the tax investigation he is currently under in Spain

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Frustrated: Messi is reportedly considering a future away from the Nou Camp

Lionel Messi has reportedly indicated he's ready to quit Barcelona.

After 14 years in Catalonia, it is claimed he wants to test himself in the Premier League, with Manchester City, United and Chelsea interested all in the four-time World Player of the Year.

The Sun claim all three clubs have made contact with Messi's representatives, with one of the trio making contact on two occasions in the last week.

It is reported a number of Premier League stars who are friends with Messi have attempted to convince him to move to England.

Messi's readiness to leave Barcelona has also allegedly been influenced by the recent tax troubles he is having in Catalonia

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Best ever? The Argentina star has scored 418 goals in 492 appearances for Barcelona

The 28-year-old and his father Jorge are facing trial over an alleged £3.1m tax fraud.

Messi's current Barcelona contract is due to expire in June 2018 and has a buyout clause of €250million in it.

A knee ligament injury is currently keeping Messi out of the Barcelona team, but he is refusing to put a timescale on his return.

Alex Caparros

Crocked: Messi is currently sidelined with a knee injury

He said: "I am improving every day without setting myself any targets. I have always said that I don’t set myself any dates because it isn’t up to me.

"As much as I would like to play tomorrow, the doctors wouldn’t let me. When they tell me that I have recovered completely will be the time that I will make my return onto the pitch.

SOURCE: mirrorfootball