The 21-year-old insists he would not leave the Vicente Calderon for local rivals Real Madrid, but has encouraged Messi to convince the Barca board of his credentials.

Aguero, who picked up a muscle tear during the first half of the 1-0 win over Colombia in yesterday's World Cup qualifier, told the Paso a Paso show on TyC Sports cable channel: "I hope Messi can take me to Barca.

"I would not betray Atletico because they have always treated me very well. If I go to Real Madrid, I would disrespect Atletico.

"I hope Messi takes me to Barcelona, but it is a matter of waiting to see what the board will decide."