Liverpool and Arsenal's pursuit of Villarreal striker Luciano Vietto has been dealt a major blow ahead of potential moves for him this summer, according to Mirror Football.

The 21-year-old has been a target for the Premier League duo in recent weeks, after netting 18 goals in his first 36 outings for the La Liga outfit this season.

But, amidst reported interest from both Real Madrid and Barcelona, Vietto has admitted it would be a dream come true to play alongside Barca legend Lionel Messi.

He said: "Everyone dreams of playing alongside Messi.

"Of course it would be a dream come true. I had the chance to meet him and also to get to know him off the pitch.

"He is a great person and made the great gesture of presenting me with his jersey. It is a memory I will retain for the rest of my life."

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But Vietto remains tight-lipped on any speculation linking him with a move away from Villarreal this summer and insists all his attention remains solely with the Estadio El Madrigal outfit.

"Being honest, I am very relaxed about this," he added.

"I just try and think solely of Villarreal, in the week's training and performing game to game.

"I use all these rumours as motivation, to keep strengthening myself and improving. I have no doubts that if I keep doing well, all will arrive in its own time."

Such an admission might prove to be a stumbling block for Brendan Rodgers and Arsene Wenger, who are both believed to be in the market for a striker ahead of next season.

But Mirror Football appear to believe Liverpool remain one of the front runners to secure his signature.