Argentine striker Ezequiel Lavezzi's decision to move from Paris Saint Germain to the Chinese Super League's Hebei China Fortune has the blessing of none other than his legendary compatriot, Lionel Messi.

"I called Messi and other players with the Argentine national team to tell them about my move to China. They supported my decision," said Lavezzi, who signed with Hebei on Feb 17.

"I gave up signing with other European clubs like Inter Milan, Chelsea or Manchester United. Finally I am here in China after one of the biggest and most challenging decisions of my life," the 31-year-old said.