Barcelona have reportedly given the 'green light' to the prospective signing of Sergio Aguero on a free transfer when he leaves Manchester City this summer.
The Argentine striker, who is City's all-time leading scorer with 258 goals, announced in March that he would be leaving the Etihad when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Barcelona have been heavily linked with a move for the 32-year-old with the Spanish giants desperate to sign a new striker after another underwhelming campaign.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the prospect of signing Aguero is now 'gaining strength' within the Nou Camp.
They claim Aguero, who has also been linked with Chelsea, is 'crazy about joining Barca' and his representatives have made his desire to team up with Messi in Spain clear to Joan Laporta and those at the club.
Barcelona and Aguero have had contract in recent days and it is thought Aguero, who earns around €12million (£10,3m) a year, is willing to take a pay cut to secure a move to the cash-strapped Spanish club.
Barcelona are hoping Aguero's arrival will convince Messi to stay put and sign a new two-year contract with the club legend's current deal due to expire at the end of June.
Aguero's recent fitness woes - he has only played 11 Premier League games this season, are not a concern for Barcelona, who still believe he can be a dangerous goal threat alongside Messi in Spain.
The City star's experience will also be valuable for Barcelona and it is hoped his experience of working under Pep Guardiola in England will serve him well at the Nou Camp.
It is thought the Argentine's arrival wouldn't prevent a deal for Memphis Depay, who is also expected to join on a free transfer from Lyon.
Aguero has played in LaLiga before, spending five years with Atletico Madrid before his move to Manchester in 2011.
He has been linked with a number of European clubs since announcing his intention to leave City, including Chelsea, Inter Milan and Arsenal.
The striker is looking to end his final season at the Etihad by winning his and City's first Champions League trophy.