Abramovich meets with Messi’s father as Chelsea prepare record move for Barcelona star

In the wake of the Argentine’s tax fraud case, Antonio Conte’s side are looking to edge ahead of Manchester City in the race for the 29-year-old if he decides to quit Camp Nou.

Lionel Messi’s father has met with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, according to The Sun.

The meeting was held on Abramovich’s yacht, the Eclipse, as Chelsea attempt to manoeuvre themselves into pole position if Messi intends to leave Barcelona in the wake of his tax fraud case.

Chelsea are ready to offer Barcelona around £110 million for the 29-year-old and will better the forward’s current deal with the Spanish champions, which currently stands at £600,000 a week.

Manchester City have also registered their interest and have a contract prepared which would see Messi earn £800,000 a week.