Barcelona star Lionel Messi has joined the chorus of voices calling for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas to rejoin his former club.

Fabregas was part of Spain's successful World Cup winning squad, but his time in South Africa was overshadowed by continuing speculation surrounding his club future.

The 23-year-old midfielder was the subject of one unsuccessful bid from the Catalan giants before the summer after reportedly telling Gunners boss Arsene Wenger of his desire to return to the Camp Nou following seven years in north London.

Wenger has vowed to fight hard to keep hold of his influential skipper, who was used mainly as a substitute by Spain during the World Cup.

But now Messi has added his weight to previous calls from the likes of Barca players Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique and Carles Puyol for Fabregas to join them this summer.

"I would be delighted if he came," said the Argentina forward. "We played together as kids and he knows the club."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email