Los Angeles Galaxy boss denies Lionel Messi approach

Los Angeles Galaxy boss Guillermo Barros Schelotto has denied that his club have been in contact with Lionel Messi over a potential move to the MLS.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Schelotto had approached Messi's father to determine whether the Barcelona forward would be interested in a switch to North America.

The Argentine, though, has insisted the recent speculation surrounding the 32-year-old, who is allegedly able to leave Camp Nou on a free transfer at the end of any season, is wide of the mark.

"There is nothing to tell. Obviously [everybody would like to have Messi] and the fact of having a certain relationship with him also brings about the possibility, but there has been no approach recently," Schelotto told reporters.

Messi has again been in strong form for his Spanish club this season, scoring 19 times and contributing 16 assists in 27 appearances in all competitions.

Galaxy lost Zlatan Ibrahimovic to AC Milan last month but have recently completed a deal for former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez.