Former Juventus coach Fabio Capello admits he tried to sign Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Messi struck five goals in victory over Bayer Leverkusen last week.

"I do have a regret, as I faced Barcelona in a friendly with Juve and Messi was just over 16 years old. He had some problems registering the contract and I asked Frank Rijkaard to loan him to me for a year, so I could help him to grow. The response was negative, a real shame," said Capello.