Brazil legend Ronaldo does not want Barcelona to part ways with Lionel Messi "in any situation".

After months of speculation regarding his future, the 33-year-old has handed in a formal transfer request in a bid to join a new club this summer.

As it stands, the relevant parties are disputing whether a fee should be involved, an argument revolving around a clause in Messi's contract which allegedly expired on June 10.

Nevertheless, former forward Ronaldo wants the Catalan giants and their best ever player to find a way to work together in the future.

Speaking during a web seminar hosted by Santander, Ronaldo said: "It's very unlikely that he'll be able to leave Barcelona at the moment, especially when there's a crisis of results.

"Messi is a reference for the team and, if I were Barcelona, I wouldn't let him leave in any situation. He has a great and strong relationship with the club and I don't think he'll stop being in love with the team."

Manchester City are currently regarded as the favourites to win the race for the player.