Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has requested an urgent meeting with Lionel Messi following his Barcelona departure, according to reports. Messi is now a free agent after his contract expired earlier in the summer, with the Catalan club confirming his exit on Thursday.

According to AS, Chelsea plan to advance negotiations to sign Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku this summer.

However, Messi’s sudden availability has caused Abramovich to request an urgent meeting with the 34-year-old’s representatives through an English intermediary.

With the Blues pressing forward with their pursuit of Lukaku, it seems like Messi could be seen as an enticing backup plan.

Chelsea are expected to make a third bid for the Belgium international, with Inter reportedly set to accept if it matches their £102million (€120m) valuation.

**We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures, and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit:https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion, and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @DExpress_Sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real-time.

We’re also on Facebook @DailyExpressSport – offering your must-see news, features, videos, and pictures throughout the day to like, comment, and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express, and Express.co.uk.**