Arsenal target Paulo Dybala hails 'incredible' Gunners interest but wants Lionel Messi link up

Palermo striker Paulo Dybala has hailed the reported interest from Arsenal as "incredible" but insists his immediate future remains in Serie A.

Dybala has scored nine goals in 17 Serie A appearances for a Palermo side who are threatening to stage a bid for a European place during the second half of the season.

The Argentine youngster has previously been compared to Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero and his performances this season has seen him linked with several big-name clubs in Europe, including Arsenal.

But while the 21-year-old striker admits he wants to stay at Palermo until at least the end of his contract, in 2016, he continues to harbour hopes of one day playing alongside Lionel Messi, either for club or country.

"One dream I have is playing alongside Lionel Messi. For me, he is the best player ever. I hope to have the chance to play with him at some point," Dybala told Goal.com.

"Things are going well, but I cannot relax. I have to keep going and always be focused. All the rumours about my future are the result of my hard work and I have to keep doing things the same way.

"It's an incredible feeling to be linked with clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Inter, Barcelona and Arsenal. All players dream of joining a big club and playing with the best. You always try to give your all and reach the top. My goal is to work hard and reach the top."

Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager, has previously shown himself to be partial to signing players during the infancy of their career. But with Danny Welbeck and Olivier Giroud leading their attack, the club are unlikely to add to their forward line any time soon.

However, given Dybala's interest in playing in the Premier League, the Gunners would be advised to make a bid for the player, or risk playing against him in the near future.

"I obviously I like Italian football, but I also like La Liga," he added. "And I follow the Premier League as well. All the teams charge forward and try to attack. That doesn't happen in Serie A.

"This is why I really like English football. A lot of teams are fighting for the title. That's the biggest difference with La Liga, where you always have the same teams challenging for the title.

"It would be wrong to say I want to go to Barcelona or Real Madrid now. Palermo have given me so much and don't deserve that. I still have a contract for two more years. I want to continue to grow here for now and do well for Palermo."