Carragher explains why Liverpool ‘won’t go anywhere near’ Lionel Messi transfer

Jamie Carragher has outlined why Liverpool ‘won’t go anywhere near’ Lionel Messi as anticipation builds over the superstar’s potential exit from Barcelona.

Manchester City appear to lead the race, with one report from Argentina having claimed on Friday that Messi has already agreed terms with Pep Guardiola’s side.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said he would love to sign Messi when quizzed about the Barca forward ahead of Saturday’s Community Shield clash against Arsenal.

But Klopp insisted the Premier League champions have “no chance” of landing the Argentine ace because of the huge finances involved – and Carragher agrees.

“I don’t think Liverpool will go anywhere near that situation,” the former Reds defender told Sky Sports.

“Financially, number one, but also because the way Liverpool the play.

“City are more technical and that would suit Messi a bit more.”

As well as City, Messi has been linked with Inter Milan, while Juventus have also joined the race, according to L’Équipe .

But Carragher hopes to see him play in the Premier League – and reckons a reunion with former Barca boss Guardiola is the only option.

Asked whether Messi could join a Premier League team, Carragher said: “I hope so, I would love to see Messi in the Premier League.

“I want to watch him, I want to analyse him. The obvious place, the only place he can really go [in England] is Manchester City, with the history he’s got with the manager and the financial clout the club have got.”

Carragher added: “But how you get that deal across the line with the figures involved, I’m not too sure. It’s mind-boggling.”

Argentine journalist Veronica Brunati, cited by Live Soccer TV, has claimed that Messi has already agreed personal terms with City.

The report came after Klopp admitted he would like to see how Messi fared in the Premier League – even if it wasn’t for Liverpool.

“Yeah, who doesn’t want Messi in their team?” said the Reds boss.

“But no chance. The numbers are absolutely not for us. But… good player to be honest!”

Will Manchester City land Lionel Messi? Have your say here

On the prospect of City signing the six-times Ballon d’Or winner, Klopp added: “It will obviously help Man City and make it more difficult to beat them.

“For the Premier League, it would be great, that would help, but I am not sure the Premier League needs that boost.

“He’s never played in another league. Football is different here. I’d like to see it. Not sure I will.”