Real Madrid were willing to smash the world record transfer fee to sign Lionel Messi from fierce rivals Barcelona in the summer of 2013, according to a new report.
The 22-year-old striker has agreed to join the Foxes on a four-and-a-half-year deal and will become Claude Puel's second signing this month after the announcement of Adrien Silva.
KIERAN GILL - THE NUMBERS GAME: Only Philippe Coutinho could tell you which of Liverpool's attacking trios he preferred playing with, though they aren't so far apart on paper.
With a free-to-air television deal, colourful brands and a new breed of fans flocking to see their local franchises, the BBL is becoming a cultural phenomenon Down Under.