Los Angeles FC striker Carlos Vela is hopeful of joining Lionel Messi in a loan spell at Barcelona once the MLS season is over.

LaLiga giants Barça reportedly considered a left-field move for the former Arsenal and Real Sociedad forward in January as they sought cover for Luis Suárez.

Vela told the New York Times: "Who could say no to playing with Messi for four months and then coming back to LA? Enjoy, learn and then come back home."

For now, Vela is focused on LAFC's playoff campaign and an El Tráfico meeting with LA Galaxy in the Western Conference semi-finals on Thursday.

"I have not had the pleasure [of meeting Galaxy striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic]," Vela said, adding: "Maybe the people don't really love my decision [to play in MLS]. But for me, it was the best option, and I'm really happy that I made it because I am enjoying it."