Lionel Messi claims Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas would become the world’s greatest midfielder if he joined Barcelona and help the Catalan giants become an even bigger European force (Barcelona 4/1 Champions League outright).

The Argentinian international is well aware that Fabregas has already committed himself to the Gunners, but he feels the Spaniard would thrive at the Nou Camp alongside some of his fellow compatriots.

On Fabregas, Messi, whose Barca side slipped off the top of the La Liga after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Athletic Bilbao, told The People: “He is one of the greatest midfield players in the world and the sort of player who would suit the Barcelona style of football.

“If he chooses to leave Arsenal I am sure it would be for Barcelona.

“And, if there is any doubt, I would like to say to him this is the best football club in the world – and if he came here I am sure he would become the greatest midfield player in the world within three years.”

However Fabregas has reiterated his desire to clinch the English Premier League title with Arsenal, (5/1 Premier League outright) despite Arsene Wenger’s men slipping eight points behind leaders Chelsea (8/11) after a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland on Saturday.

He said: “The Premier League is a competition I really want to win. It’s very special and a dream I want to fulfil.

“To be champions of England would be one of the best moments in my life, for sure.”

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