Barcelona could reportedly use Antoine Griezmann as a makeweight in a potential move for former star Neymar amid concerns that the Frenchman's relationship with Lionel Messi is strained.

Axar.az reports citing Dailymail that The £108million summer signing previously admitted that he has rarely spoken with the mercurial Argentine since his arrival, and has also endured a mixed start to life at his new club.

Despite scoring three times since his Nou Camp move, Griezmann has cut a frustrated figure after failing to settle into boss Ernesto Valverde's system.

The 28-year-old has been placed under increased pressure at the reigning champions in the absence of Messi - who has struggled with an injury setback for most of the season.

And it is believed that Messi also holds a close friendship with frontman Luis Suarez, following reports from Argentina that had suggested the former favored a move for Neymar over the club's eventual big-money signing.

Questioned about his connection with Messi ahead of Barcelona's Champions League victory against Inter Milan, Griezmann said: 'It has been difficult to get to know each other.