Lionel Messi has told Barcelona directors to drop their interest in Liverpool ace Philippe Coutinho.

The Brazil international penned a new deal earlier this year, but remains on the radar of Barca.

The Blaugrana see Coutinho as a potential successor for Andres Iniesta, but Messi is unhappy with the interest.

DiarioGol says Messi doesn't want a close friend of Neymar's strengthening his influence inside the locker room.

Messi, in new contract talks, has demanded a greater say on transfers and has made it clear he doesn't want Coutinho to be pursued.

Just this week, Neymar was confronted by senior teammates over his absence for defeat at Deportivo La Coruna.

Officially, Neymar missed the game citing a muscle strain, which was accepted by coach Luis Enrique.

However, teammates, including Andres Iniesta and Messi, had other ideas - particularly as the game fell on the same weekend as the birthday party of Neymar's sister.