Lionel Messi Premier League Transfer RUMORS: Barcelona Footballer "Ready" for

Lionel Messi has refused to rule out a move to the Premier League with Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea all believed to be keen on a move. Embroiled in a legal battle with the tax department in Spain, Messi is reportedly considering moving to greener pastures in a bid to avoid further controversies.

"It is the closest he's ever been to leaving Barcelona".

And Balague has revealed that Messi's stance over his future appears to have changed in recent months amid the recent reported interest from Premier League clubs.

"Messi was never before this close to leaving the club, but this doesn't necessarily mean that he'll be going", the journalist began.

Lionel Messi's recent row with tax authorities in Spain is no secret, and has led to speculation that he is prepared to leave due to the extensive media coverage on the case.

"Messi is phenomental but in my opinion, Cristiano is a special player because he does everything for Madrid", he affirmed.

Barcelona have found themselves mired in a series of controversies with President Josep Maria Bartomeu himself claiming that there have been 'a lot of coincidences' as the Catalan club continues to make headlines.

However, Bartomeu has responded angrily to the reports about the transfer.

"Leo and his father said they don't imagine playing at another club than Barcelona", he told 8TV. The relationship with the family is very good.

Guardiola and Messi to reunite in England?

If Messi does decide to leave, Man United will be expected to be in the running to sign the 28-year-old and who knows what can happen from there.

Former Barcelona star Ronaldinho has described Neymar as the heir to his position at Camp Nou. He looks the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or this year after guiding Barca to yet another treble, including Champions League victory over Juventus.