Arsenal transfer boost as Messi demands £26m target is ditched, head coach also green lights summer exit

Arda Turan, Diego Costa, Chelsea, London

Arsenal transfer boost as Messi demands £26m target is ditched, head coach also green lights summer exit

Lionel Messi has demanded Barcelona ditch four players this summer according to Don Balon.

Per the source, Messi wants Munir, Thomas Vermaelen, Arda Turan and Andre Gomes to leave.

The Argentinian international has reportedly told Barcelona which players he feels are not good enough.

The report claims Barca are happy to sell Turan, Munir and Vermaelen but want to keep Gomes.

See More: 3 reasons Barcelona star Arda Turan would be a success at Arsenal

The news will come as a blow to Turan but as a transfer boost for clubs interested in the former Turkish international.

The Hurriyet newspaper only recently claimed that Barcelona have an offer on the table from Arsenal.

The report also revealed that Juventus and Inter Milan were also in the race.

Barcelona want £26 million for their star man this season but the Gunners are keen on getting the La Liga giants to accept a lower fee according to Mundo Deportivo.

Barca manager Ernest Valverde has also given Turan the green light to leave this summer.

The 30-year-old does have another three-years remaining on his contract and will have the final say over when he leaves and who he joins.

The experienced attacking midfielder will be able to focus his efforts on club football after retiring from the Turkish national team.

Turan had a bust-up with an elderly reporter on the team aeroplane following the goalless draw against Macedonia.