Lionel Messi is preparing to put up $4million to help release Ronaldinho from Paraguayan jail following news of the Brazilian's arrest last week, according to reports.
The Brazilian World Cup winner, 39, was arrested just over a week ago after allegedly entering Paraguay with a fake passport.
Ronaldinho has been warned that he could face up to six months in jail for using the alleged dodgy documents.
But 90Min claim that Messi plans to help his old Barcelona team-mate by hiring four top lawyers to take on his case.
It is reported that it will cost the Argentine ace up to £3.25million in legal fees.
Ronaldinho was one of the best players in the world when Messi emerged through the youth ranks at Barcelona.
The Brazilian famously took the then youngster under his wing and laid the foundation to his development, which in turn led to a friendship which remains to this day.