Chelsea 'exploring possibility of signing Lionel Messi'

Chelsea are reportedly weighing up a potential move for Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi.

The Argentine is believed to be considering his future at Camp Nou, with various reports suggesting that the forward could seek pastures new during this summer's transfer window.

Manchester City and Inter Milan have both been strongly linked with the 33-year-old, who is said to have already informed new Barca boss Ronald Koeman that he could be on the move.

However, according to Sport, Chelsea are also exploring the possibility of signing the South American.

The report claims that the Blues have other areas that they want to address first, having already improved their attack by signing Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner during this summer's transfer window.

Frank Lampard's side would allegedly be interested if Messi became available, though, and are keeping a close eye on developments as the speculation continues to gather pace.

Barca are said to be unprepared to sell their star player this summer for less than his £631m release clause.