Inter Milan chief Giuseppe Marotta has claimed talk of a move for Lionel Messi is nothing more than "fantasy football".
The Argentine has spent his entire career at Barcelona but the Nerazzurri have long been admirers.
Tensions have risen this season at the Nou Camp though with Messi going public with some of his issues following the sacking of Ernesto Valverde.
It has led to suggestions that the six-time Ballon D'Or winner may seek a new challenge.
But Marotta has quashed speculation of a move to the San Siro stating that he believes Messi still wants to see out his career in Catalunya.
He told Sky Sport Italia : “It’s fantasy football.
“He certainly is not one of our objectives and I think he’s interested in continuing his football career in Barcelona.”
Inter could yet have dealings with the Catalan giants this summer though with Lautaro Martinez a top target.
Messi's compatriot is likely to cost a hefty fee with the Italians keen to keep hold of the striker.
A first Serie A title since 2010 looks to be beyond them with their sights now set on securing second place with Atlanta and Lazio also in the hunt.
Marotta added: “Obviously, second place is important, but our analysis has to be about constant growth and the season is not yet over.
“What we’ve been able to see is that we’ve improved and therefore we want to continue that process. If we analyse our entire journey, we are happy.
“There are a few small regrets seeing what happened to those in front of us, but we have to be happy with what we’ve achieved.
“This is an anomalous campaign after the lockdown, so it becomes difficult to fully evaluate players and teams. We must prepare for the next season, which, as a consequence of this timing, will also not be easy.”
