Jose Mourinho has publicly dismissed any chance of the Blues landing Messi, but owner Roman Abramovich may be prepared to push the boat out to land one of the best players in the world.
Financial Fair Play regulations make any move complex and unlikely though, with Chelsea committed to the new economic policies.
Manchester City could end up benefitting most from the power struggle at Barcelona, ahead of their Champions League last-16 tie.
Yesterday both Enrique and Barca president Jose Maria Bartomeu played down accusations of turmoil - although Bartomeu calling early elections told its own story.