Report: Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Real Madrid try to sign Lionel Messi

Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Real Madrid reportedly all tried to sign Lionel Messi from Barcelona in the summer.

Recent reports claimed that the 26-year-old, who alongside Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo is widely regarded as the best player in the world, had been the subject of interest from three unnamed parties.

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo has named those particular clubs as Champions League holders Bayern, Chelsea and La Liga rivals Madrid.

It is understood that Adidas – who sponsor all three teams – played an active role in the pursuit of the Argentine, but Messi firmly rejected the interest.

Messi has been with Barcelona since 2000.