By John Essien
Lionel Messi would relish the possibility of playing in the same team as his arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo as speculation continues to mount over the Portuguese future at Manchester United.
Last week, Ronaldo had informed the Red Devils of his desire to leave this summer over the clubs lack of transfer activity and absence from Champions League.
A number of European clubs including Chelsea have been linked with Ronaldo, and a potential transfer to Paris Saint-Germain has also been predicted as his next possible destination.
A move to the Parc des Princes would see Ronaldo link up with his long-time rival Messi, who is preparing for his second season at PSG.
It would be an unlikely partnership between the two players, who rivalled each other for individual and team honours for more than a decade.
When asked about the prospect of playing in the same team as Ronaldo and whether it would be something he would agree to, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner said:
“Yes, of course.
“I always like to play with the best, and he is one of them. I think it will be difficult for us to play in the same team, but obviously I would like to.
“I was lucky enough to play and participate with many very good players and, obviously, I would also like to do it with him.”
Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes recently met with Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly to discuss a potential deal for the Portugal international.
However, Blues Head Coach Thomas Tuchel is said to have ‘little interest’ in signing Ronaldo, with the London club close to completing a deal for Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling.
It remains to be seen whether a suitable offer will arrive for Ronaldo before the start of the season, with United due to face Brighton in their opening Premier League match on August 7.
