By RYAN TOLMICH

The Liga Players Union (AFE) remains unhappy following La Liga’s new TV distribution deal, and their willingness to strike appears to be backed by one of the league’s marquee players.

Lionel Messi says that he is aware of the AFE’s desire to strike and supports the position, which would see players miss out on the penultimate round of league games. The strike comes as a result of Spain’s latest TV deal that sees a more even split of revenue, one that the AFE was not involved in.

“That is something which AFE have said to us, they came here for a meeting with us,” Messi said. “The players are with them in what they say.”

Should the players choose to strike, Messi and Barcelona would miss out on a clash with Atletico Madrid on May 17.

Here are some more news and notes to kick off your Wednesday morning:

TIGRES ADVANCE TO COPA LIBERTADORES QUARTERFINALS

Tigres are the first club to lock up a spot in the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals.

The Mexican club conceded an early goal, but came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw and 3-2 aggreagate victory over Bolivia’s Universitario de Sucre.

Overcoming Ruben Cuesta’s second minute finish, Tigres’ Rafael Sobis buried his penalty kick in the 76th minute to secure advancement for the Mexican side.

With the victory, Tigres advances to the competition’s quarterfinal stage, while the club also remains in pursuit of a league title and has already qualified for the Liguilla.

AFRICA’S RICHEST MAN STILL LOOKING TO BUY ARSENAL

Africa’s richest man still remains hopeful that he can become Africa’s richest club owner.

Aliko Dangote remains hopeful that he can buy Arsenal after previously making an attempt in 2010. Dangote’s current business interests, sugar and oil, helping the businessman acquire a fortune worth roughly $16 billion.

“I still hope, one day at the right price, that I will buy the team,” Dangote said. “I might buy it, not at a ridiculous price but a price that the owners won’t want to resist. I know my strategy.

“We have $16 billion-worth of investments in the next few years. Right now I want to take my own business to a certain level. Once I finish on that trajectory, then maybe.”

Dangote went on to say that he believes the club is in need of change, starting with manager Arsene Wenger.

“[Wenger] needs to change his style a bit,” Dangote said. They need new direction.”

QUICK KICKS

Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign 17-year-old Portuguese prospect Paulinho. (REPORT)

Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen will be in the squad for the club’s Champions League first leg agains Bayern Munich. (REPORT)

Chelsea forward Nemanja Matic insists that the club is still hungry for victories in the Premier League after clinching the title last week. (REPORT)

Tottenham forward Emmanual Adebaayor posted a strong criticism of his family on Facebook. (REPORT)

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What do you think of the potential La Liga striker? How will Tigres fare in their current competitions? Will Dangote ever get a stake in Arsenal?

Share your thoughts below.