That's according to Spanish news outlet Don Balon who reckon Messi wants to take charge at the Nou Camp.

The Catalan heavyweights are on the cusp of losing Neymar to Paris St-Germain.

The Brazilian froward is expected to cost the Ligue 1 side an eye-watering £199m.

And that means Ernesto Valverde will have cash to splash once the transfer is completed.

Having been unimpressed with Barca's transfer dealings last summer, Messi is keen to add quality to the squad.

Don Balon say he's impressed with new right-back Nelson Semedo and recognises that the former Benfica ace has proven quality.

Barca need to bolster the midfield options desperately.

Coutinho and PSG star Marco Verratti have both been touted as potential arrivals.

But Messi thinks England international Alli is the best bet.

Don Balon say the ex-MK Dons midfielder won't be cheap.

However, they reckon he'd be a more cost effective option that Coutinho or Verratti.

Alli, 21, has flourished since moving to Tottenham in 2015.

He's bagged 28 goals in 70 games for the north Londoners.