Messi refuses to rule out a move to China

Having come through the Barcelona academy, Lionel Messi doesn't seem quite ready to leave. However a move to China could be a possibility in the future.

In the last few months, Chinese teams have successfully lured some of the world's top players to the Chinese Super League, the likes of Oscar, Ezequiel Lavezzi, Hulk and even Axel Witsel spring to mind.

It is seen as a footballer's 'El Dorado' and with the high number of multibillionaire owners, the clubs themselves are well positioned to try to up the bar even further.

In an interview with 'ESPN' Messi did not completely rule out the possibility of an Asian adventure later in his career. "I can't say that it is impossible. Nobody knows what will happen in football these days. Everything is possible, but for now I don't think so." he told the US media.

However, the possibility of such a move in reality is extremely slim. Messi has made his desire to play for Barcelona for as long as possible well known. "Staying at Barca is what I have always wanted, the dream is to end my career here." he declared.