Sergio Aguero has claimed that he expects Lionel Messi to stay at Barcelona, despite reports that Manchester City are prepared to pay the forward £20m a year at the Etihad Stadium.

Messi, who has been officially named the world's best footballer four times, has spent his entire career so far at Camp Nou.

However, there have been rumours that the Argentine may consider his future due to the ongoing tax issues that he is facing in Spain.

Despite reports of City's mammoth offer, Aguero, who plays alongside Messi at international level, believes that the 28-year-old will stay put.

"It's very difficult for Leo to leave Barcelona because he's played there since he was very young and it's not easy for him to think about another team," Aguero told Omnisport.

"So no. Hopefully he can be here at City obviously, but of course it's always the player's decision and I think he's very comfortable and very calm in Barcelona."

Messi reportedly earns £15m per year at Barcelona.