Former Inter Milan sports chief Marco Branca has confirmed trying to sign Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Branca has explained how the club tried to pry Messi away from Barcelona, without success, in 2008.

"Yes, we moved with intent, but Leo didn't want to leave Barcelona," Branca told TMW Radio.

"He was very grateful [for what Barcelona had given him].

"The economic aspect is not always the priority.

"It's not all about the money."