Portugal, who served Real Madrid in several capacities, including as a player, Castilla coach, scout and technical secretary between 2007 and 2009, made the revelation while discussing some of the talents he followed during his time at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, Portugal disclosed that someone close to Messi had reportedly approached Real Madrid with an opportunity to sign the youngster when his professional future at Barcelona was still uncertain.

“I don't know if it was true or not, word reached the club that they could go after him. The opportunity was there. We didn't want to sever ties with Barça, but there was indeed some contact. Although, out of respect, I don't think it would have gone ahead,” Portugal added.

However, Portugal clarified that the situation never developed into formal negotiations, stressing that he could not independently verify the information presented to the club.

Messi had joined Barcelona's youth academy in 2000 at the age of 13 after leaving Argentine side Newell's Old Boys. At the time of the reported approach from Real Madrid, he was still developing within the Catalan club's youth system.

The Argentine eventually made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004, beginning a remarkable career that established him as one of football's greatest players.

During his time at Camp Nou, Messi scored 672 goals in 778 competitive appearances and won eight Ballon d'Or awards, becoming an iconic figure in Barcelona's history.

The revelation has renewed interest in what could have been one of football's biggest transfer stories had Real Madrid pursued the opportunity to sign Messi before his rise to global superstardom.