Yes, you read the headline correctly! According to reports in Spain, Lionel Messi was considering his options only two months ago, but how close was the Argentinian wizard in moving to London this summer? The incredibly gifted 27-year-old is a long term admirer of Arsene Wenger's footbally style and philosophy and he could have been very close to lighting up the Premier league. Messi, who has been reported as speaking to former Gunner Cesc Fabregas, was left stunned last season after Barcelona failed to lift the Champions league and lost the La Liga to Atletico Madrid. The rumours from Spanish website Vozpopuli may well be accurate but would Wenger really be able to afford the Ballon d'Or winner with a reported buy out clause of a whopping £197 million? Surely this may have been the final stumbling block on top of paying him in excess of £15m a year in salary and sponsorship. Maybe Arsenal fans will be hoping the demise of Barcelona continues and Messi hints towards a move to The Emirates next summer... Do you belive these reports emerging from Spain? Would you be happy if Arsenal spent that much money on the little genuis?