JORGINHO has joked that he texted Lionel Messi begging him to join Chelsea after the Argentine's shock Barcelona exit.
The Italian has had a whirlwind year, winning the Champions League and Euro 2020.
But he was left in disbelief when he saw the news that Messi had departed Barcelona.
In fact, the 29-year-old wondered if it was just 'fake news'.
Speaking to TNT Sports in Brazil, he said: "I’ve already texted him (laughs).
"I’m kidding, I’m not even kidding about it.
"If he does not to come to Chelsea, let him go away (from the Premier League).
I was incredulous. I was wondering if it was fake news
"I saw it (the departure) and I was like ‘what happened?’
"I was incredulous. I was wondering if it was fake news."
Messi, 34, was forced to depart Barca after the Catalan giants fell foul of LaLiga's financial regulations.
At a tearful press conference yesterday, he said: "I was convinced to stay here at Barcelona. This is my home, our home.
"I wanted to stay at Barca and it was the plan… and today I’ve to say goodbye after my entire life here."
He is now set to move to Paris Saint-Germain.
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As for Jorginho, the Italian is set to be joined at Stamford Bridge by £97.5million star Romelu Lukaku.
On the prospect of linking up with the Belgian, enthused Jorginho added: "A player like Lukaku, who has been doing great seasons, was champion in Italy, he’s certainly a player who would contribute a lot.
"Everything that adds up would be worth it. Let’s see the next episodes."
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