Sergio Aguero trying to convince Lionel Messi to stay at Barcelona

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that new signing Sergio Aguero is trying to persuade Lionel Messi to sign a new deal at Camp Nou.

Messi has been locked in talks with Barca over a new contract, but he has yet to verbally agree fresh terms, with his current deal expiring on June 30.

Fellow Argentinian attacker Aguero, who only arrived at Barca this month following his Manchester City exit, is desperate for his compatriot to stay on for at least another year.

Speaking to Catalan outlet La Vanguardia, Laporta said: "Aguero is helping. He is telling him every day to stay.

"I would like Messi to tell us 'yes' as soon as possible. He would help us in every way.

"He is excited and I am grateful to him for the desire he is showing to stay."

Messi and Aguero are currently away on Copa America duty with Argentina.

La Albiceleste drew with Chile in their opening game and beat Uruguay 1-0 last time out, leaving them second in Group A.