Photo: Splash News

Lionel Messi has signed a deal with Electronic Arts to be the future face of the FIFA franchise.

The Barcelona player, who for a number of years was the global icon of rival Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer, will make his first appearance on the cover of FIFA Street in March.

Messi said in a statement: "I want to be part of the team behind the best sports football game in the world and be associated with the great EA Sports name.

"EA Sports is a brand that shares my values of creativity, excellence and social responsibility."

EA Sports' General manager of football Matt Bilbey added: "Our FIFA franchise is the number one selling sports video game franchise in the world, and Lionel Messi is the number one player in the world, so this agreement is a true partnership of superstars.

"With Messi on our team we have the world's best and most exciting player to help EA Sports maintain its global leadership in the years ahead."

The forward, winner of the 2010 FIFA Ballon d'Or award top scorer in the Champions League top scorer for each of the past three seasons, will feature on all future FIFA titles, as well as being involved with marketing, advertising and social media campaigns.

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