Barcelona Rivaldo says signing Aguero would be a 'coup' for his former club

Sergio Aguero would be a 'coup' for Barcelona, according to Rivaldo, who says the Argentine striker's signature could help convince Lionel Messi to stay at the Nou Camp.

Manchester City's record goal scorer will end a trophy-laden 10 year spell at the Etihad Stadium when his contract expires in June.

Barca are among a host of clubs that have been linked with the 32-year-old and Rivaldo believes his arrival in Catalonia, could help compatriot Lionel Messi make a decision on his own future.

'Signing Aguero on a free transfer could be a coup for Barcelona,' the former Blaugrana playmaker told Betfair.

'He has a good relationship with Lionel Messi and, with Barca missing Luis Suarez this season, Aguero would probably go straight into the starting 11.

'His arrival could also [help] new club president Joan Laporta persuade Messi to stay at the club.

'Memphis Depay and possibly Erling Haaland are said to be in conversations with the club.

'But those players will cost big fees, so [head coach Ronald] Koeman should carefully weigh up the options before rejecting them, especially when we are talking about a player of Kun Aguero's quality.'

Messi is now in the final three months of his contract at Barca, and will wait until the end of the season before making a decision regarding his future.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner infamously tried to leave the club last summer but his transfer request was rejected. However, Paris Saint-Germain and Man City are still reportedly interested in signing him on a free transfer and are keeping a watchful eye on his situation.

Laporta's re-election as club president has given Barca fans hope that Messi will stay, the Argentine enjoyed a very successful period during his first term in charge.

City didn't offer Aguero a new contract after another campaign ravaged by niggling injuries.

The 32-year-old has only made 14 appearances in all competitions this season, and Pep Guardiola's side have flourished in his absence. With a potential quadruple still on the cards heading into the last run of fixtures.