Barcelona have threatened legal action against allegations that they hired a PR firm to tweet negative comments at players, including Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique.

I3 Ventures was reportedly hired by team president Josep Maria Bartomeu to help clean up his image in 2017.

The company is alleged to have also sent negative comments to Barcelona team players, presidential candidates, and former club figures like Xavi and Pep Guardiola.

Barcelona released a statement denying the claims.

"We roundly deny any relationship, and furthermore, the contracting of services linked to social media accounts that have broadcast negative or disparaging messages related to any person, entity or organisation that may be, or have been, related to the club.

"I3 Ventures, a service provider to the club, has no relationship with the accounts mentioned and, if any relationship was to come to light, the club would immediately end their contractual agreement and bring about any necessary legal action to defend their interests," released the club.