Messi believes Rooney is one of the world's finest footballers and told the Daily Star Sunday that he'd love to see the striker swap Old Trafford for the Nou Camp.

Rooney enjoyed another terrific season in the red jersey of United last season - but has come under-fire in recent days following his below-par performance and unwise rant at his country's disillusioned fans after the goalless draw with Algeria.

Messi told the newspaper: "It would be a dream to play with Rooney if Manchester United ever came to the point where they needed to sell him.

"I would personally go to the Barcelona president and ask that he be signed myself."

Fans will be looking for a big improvement from Rooney ahead of Wednesday's make-or-break World Cup clash with group leaders Slovenia.

View a Printer Friendly version of this Story.