Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has claimed that Lionel Messi is innocent of any tax fraud charges.

The four-time Ballon d'Or winner and his father are being investigated for allegedly failing to pay €4m (£3.4m) in taxes.

The Argentine has denied the claims, and his club president insists that the family are not guilty of any wrongdoing.

"I've spoken to [Messi's] family and they're very calm," Rosell told reporters.

"They have our full support because we believe Messi is innocent in this whole case."

If found guilty, Messi could face up to six years in jail.

Written by
Daniel Cross