Barcelona star Lionel Messi has backed the club's pursuit of Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

Messi has admitted that he is eager to see the Arsenal midfielder bolster the ranks of Barca's already bulging attacking options.

"If he (Fabregas) does come it would be fantastic for the club, and the staff would be very happy with him," said the Argentinean international.

"I know him very well, and would be happy for him to be here, but he has not called to tell me that he is coming yet."