BUENOS AIRES: Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi's charitable organization Fundacion Leo Messi (pic) has moved to deny reports that the 25-year-old's first son has been born.

ViWiMe, a radio station from the player's native Argentina, had written on Twitter that his girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo had given birth, only for no confirmation to be made on the matter.

The rumor led the attacker's fans to send messages of support and congratulations to him, however, it has now been announced that the reports were false.

"Lionel and his family thank you for all your comments and loving messaged received today," the statement, on the organization's Facebook page, read.

"However, they would like to say that the information about the birth of Leo's son that has been doing the rounds is totally false."

Later Messi himself posted on his Facebook page.

It read: "My family and I thank you all for the comments and messages of affection that we have received today, but we want to make it clear that the information circulating that my son has been born is completely false. A hug to everyone!"

Messi is currently preparing for the Clasico clash with Real Madrid at Nou Camp on Monday (1.50am), with Barca currently eight Primera Liga points ahead of the champions.

- mD