One of Lionel Messi’s Argentina team-mates could be involved in a Premier League swap deal this summer.
Messi, who recently captained his side to Copa America glory, has already given his backing to his international colleague ahead of the potential move.
The player is currently at Tottenham but could be set to sign for a Premier League rival.
They came off the bench as Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 in the Copa America final, having started when they previously won the trophy against Brazil in 2021.
The player in question is midfielder Giovani Lo Celso, who according to DIRECTV Sports, could be set to join Aston Villa.
Lionel Messi has given his verdict on a potential swap deal involving a Tottenham player
Lionel Messi rates Argentina team-mate Giovani Lo Ceslo highly and previously recommended him to Barcelona
Tottenham could pay £20million plus Lo Celso to bring in Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa
The move could be part of a swap deal that would see Jacob Ramsey head to Tottenham, with Ange Postecoglou’s side also paying £20million.
Villa, who have already sold Douglas Luiz to Juventus for £43million, are looking to ensure that they comply with PSR regulations.
A 2023 report from Spanish publication AS Sport, reported that Messi had recommended Lo Celso to his former club Barcelona.
It’s said that the legendary Barcelona star – a eight-time Ballon d’Or winner – warned then manager Xavi a few years ago that Lo Celso was ‘the best player in the national team’.
Lo Celso, 28, has 57 caps for Argentina, though was not included in the squad that won the 2022 World Cup due to a hamstring injury.
Currently valued at £13.5million by Transfermarkt, Lo Celso would seemingly be an impressive signing for Villa.
The midfielder joined Tottenham in 2020 and has made over 100 appearances.
Last season he had 24 outings in all competitions, after spending the two previous seasons out on loan at Villarreal.
