Liverpool and Barcelona have already negotiated for one player this month in the form of Philippe Coutinho, who left Anfield for the Nou Camp in a huge £142million transfer deal.

However, it appears the two clubs’ off-field rivalry may be set to continue.

Spanish publication Diario Gol say that Liverpool enquired about Roberto while negotiating with Barca for Coutinho.

But the interference of Messi has supposedly prevented the Spaniard from making the move to Merseyside.

Liverpool are keen to add to their squad this winter.

The Reds are boosted by the money received from Coutinho and Klopp may wish to spend it strengthening different areas of his squad.

A right-back could arrive given Nathaniel Clyne’s injury problems - while a central midfielder may also be desired to replace Emre Can should the German join Juventus.

Roberto is capable of playing in both positions with his versatility helping Barcelona to silverware in recent years.

Yet Diario Gol say Messi has stopped the 25-year-old from departing.

It is said he has convinced the player to stay and push for a new and improved Barcelona contract.

Roberto himself never really considered leaving but is mindful that regular game time may be more guaranteed elsewhere.

Messi has supposedly asked the Barcelona board to try and make a new contract for Roberto a priority.

The Spaniard has blossomed at the back ever since Dani Alves’ departure to Juventus in the summer of 2016.

Whether or not Messi’s words are heeded, however, remains to be seen.