Shohei Ohtani’s new LA Dodgers jersey breaks record previously held by Lionel Messi

Shohei Ohtani has set a new record - even before playing his first MLB game for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

On the eve of an introductory press conference to present history’s first $700 million athlete, Ohtani set yet another mark.

According to licensed sportswear retailer Fanatics, his No 17 Dodgers jersey set a record for sales within 48 hours of release.

Ohtani shirts flew off the shelves - both physical and digital - at a rate that more than doubled the previous record, held by football megastar Lionel Messi.

When Ohtani dons a Dodgers jersey for the first time during his introductory press conference, there will be countless fans already wearing the No 17 in Dodger blue.