Chelsea 'plotting £200m Lionel Messi move'

Fresh reports have emerged suggesting that Chelsea could make a big-money move for Barcelona forward Lionel Messi this month.

The Blues have been repeatedly linked with the Argentina international, although manager Jose Mourinho recently played down speculation by claiming that his side had "no chance" of landing the four-time Ballon d'Or winner's signature.

However, the Daily Star reports that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has made it his mission to lure Messi to Stamford Bridge, and a potential £200m bid could be tabled this month.

Messi, who has scored 388 goals in 479 appearances for Barca, has reportedly become embroiled in a cash dispute with the Calatan giants which has led to questions over his long-term future at the club.