Kevin-Prince Boateng Hopes for Permanent Barcelona Stay & Lauds 'Best In the World' Lionel Messi

Kevin-Prince Boateng wants to stay at Barcelona for the long-term after completing his 'dream' move to the Camp Nou.

Barcelona surprisingly signed the versatile Boateng from Sassuolo on Monday in a six-month loan deal, with the option to be made permanent for €8m next summer.

Speaking at his unveiling, Boateng revealed his excitement at joining Barcelona, despite acknowledging that he will not be a regular starter for Ernesto Valverde's team.

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"When I heard the news my agent called me and I thought it was a dream, it was a great honour and I am very happy," said Boateng, quoted by Mundo Deportivo. "I told my agent I didn't want to go by plane to Barcelona. I wanted to run.

"I have not talked to the coach but I know I have not come to play in the starting line because there are incredible players in this team, I'm here because of my experience and to help."

In a Twitter post from last summer which he has not deleted, Boateng claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo was the best player in the world, but he reversed that statement in light of his new allegiances.

"I am a Barcelona player and [Lionel] Messi is the best player in this world and all the worlds, he has shown why in the last ten years," said Boateng.

Once a winger and midfielder, Boateng has played mostly as a centre forward for Sassuolo this season. The 31-year-old claims that this position is ideal for him at his age.

"At my age the role of number nine is perfect for me, but for a coach to think of a player like me is a plus because I can play in different positions, but I feel very good as a number nine," said the former Ghanaian international.

Barcelona is Boateng's second La Liga club, following a one-season stay at Las Palmas in 2016/17.