Lionel Messi’s compatriot Gonzalo Higuain has warned the Barcelona talisman about the toughness of the Premier League.

The Juventus striker had firsthand experience of defenders in the league during his loan spell at Chelsea in 2019.

Big things were expected of Higuain when he arrived at Stamford Bridge, but he scored only five goals.

Messi has grown disillusioned with life at his boyhood club following numerous mounting problems behind the scenes.

Manchester City have emerged as the favourites to sign the 33-year-old which would see him reunited with old boss Pep Guardiola.

Speaking to Fox Sports, as translated by Marca, Higuain, 32, said: “I suffered a lot in the Premier League and couldn’t adapt in those six months.

“It’s nothing like LaLiga. Defenders kick the s*** out of you and nothing gets given, they don’t blow for free-kicks like they would in Spain.

“I don’t know how that would affect Messi.

“I don’t think he would suffer, since he is a player at another level.”

His contract expires next summer when he can leave for free but he appears determined to leave right now.

He reportedly threatened to quit if there was not a major restructure at the Nou Camp.

But he is not willing to wait for the change and wants to leave “immediately”, according to Esporte Interativo.