Lionel Messi pushing for Barcelona to sign £100million Chelsea transfer target to solve problem position

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  • Lionel Messi is keen on Barcelona splashing the cash up front next summer
  • The Argentine believes his club should try to sign £100m-rated Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi
  • Chelsea have also been linked with the in-form 24-year-old, who has 13 goals in 13 games in Serie A this season
  • SEE ALSO: (Photos) Meet hot WAG Wanda Nara, Mauro Icardi agent and wife

Lionel Messi is reportedly pushing for Barcelona to beat Chelsea and Real Madrid to the transfer of Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi next summer.

The Argentina international believes the 24-year-old could be a good upgrade on Luis Suarez, who has shown some signs of decline this season after a poor start in front of goal.

Normally a real threat in front of goal, Suarez has just five goals in 17 appearances for Barca so far this season, while Icardi has been in stunning form with a 100% record in Serie A.

Helping Inter to mount a serious challenge for their first title since 2009/10, Icardi has scored 13 goals in 13 games in Serie A so far, and looks like he could be a great fit at the Nou Camp.

According to Gol Digital, Chelsea are also keen to sign Icardi to bolster their attacking options, and could even more for him as early as January.

Chelsea could be beaten to the Mauro Icardi transfer by Barcelona

MORE: Chelsea transfer news

The Sun, however, have listed Real Madrid as serious contenders for a player likely to cost as much as £100million.

The latest update comes from Don Balon, who now suggest Messi is eager for Barcelona to battle for his signature, with the pair enjoying a strong relationship away from the pitch.

Another report from Don Balon today suggests, however, that manager Ernesto Valverde believes a creative player like Mesut Ozil or Philippe Coutinho is a more pressing priority for the club.

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