Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club.

The consortium, which won the bid to acquire the London side earlier this month, received approval from the Premier League and the British government last week for the sale to go ahead. A final agreement was reached on Saturday. Russian owner Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Sanctions on the Russian had also complicated the sale process.

"In selling the club, Mr. Abramovich stipulated that the new owner must be a good steward of the club, the net proceeds of the sale must be donated to charity, and that he would not seek the repayment of loans made to affiliates of the club," Chelsea said in a statement.

The sale also needed the green light from the Portugal government after Abramovich became a citizen of the country last year and is also under European Union sanctions. Chelsea had been operating under a special license issued by the British government since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31.

Chelsea said they had received more than 250 enquiries from proposed purchasers, adding that 32 confidentiality agreements had been reached with interested parties. The club eventually received 12 credible bids which were narrowed down to four before the Boehly-led consortium was chosen as the preferred bidder.

Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($177.21 million), with his investment resulting in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

`WE`RE ALL IN` 
The club said Boehly and Clearlake would share joint control and equal governance of the club. Boehly, who is part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, will serve as chairman of the holding company. 
"We are honoured to become the new custodians of Chelsea Football Club. We`re all in -- 100% -- every minute of every match," Boehly said.

"Our vision as owners is clear: we want to make the fans proud. Along with our commitment to developing the youth squad and acquiring the best talent, our plan of action is to invest in the club for the long-term and build on Chelsea`s remarkable history of success. "I personally want to thank ministers and officials in the British government, and the Premier League, for all their work in making this happen."

The completion of the sale now allows Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed. Chelsea finished third in the recently concluded Premier League season. They lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup and League Cup finals while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Real Madrid.

Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club.

Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club. The consortium, which won the bid to acquire the London side earlier this month, received approval from the Premier League and the British government last week for the sale to go ahead. A final agreement was reached on Saturday. Russian owner Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Sanctions on the Russian had also complicated the sale process. "In selling the club, Mr. Abramovich stipulated that the new owner must be a good steward of the club, the net proceeds of the sale must be donated to charity, and that he would not seek the repayment of loans made to affiliates of the club," Chelsea said in a statement. The sale also needed the green light from the Portugal government after Abramovich became a citizen of the country last year and is also under European Union sanctions. Chelsea had been operating under a special license issued by the British government since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31. Chelsea said they had received more than 250 enquiries from proposed purchasers, adding that 32 confidentiality agreements had been reached with interested parties. The club eventually received 12 credible bids which were narrowed down to four before the Boehly-led consortium was chosen as the preferred bidder. Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($177.21 million), with his investment resulting in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice. `WE`RE ALL IN` The club said Boehly and Clearlake would share joint control and equal governance of the club. Boehly, who is part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, will serve as chairman of the holding company. "We are honoured to become the new custodians of Chelsea Football Club. We`re all in -- 100% -- every minute of every match," Boehly said. "Our vision as owners is clear: we want to make the fans proud. Along with our commitment to developing the youth squad and acquiring the best talent, our plan of action is to invest in the club for the long-term and build on Chelsea`s remarkable history of success. "I personally want to thank ministers and officials in the British government, and the Premier League, for all their work in making this happen." The completion of the sale now allows Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed. Chelsea finished third in the recently concluded Premier League season. They lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup and League Cup finals while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Real Madrid.

Roman-era comes to an end as Abramovich completes Chelsea sale to Todd Boehly-led consortium

Portugal has given its blessing to the sale of Chelsea by Russian-born billionaire Roman Abramovich, who became a Portuguese citizen last year and is under European Union sanctions, the Foreign Ministry said on Thursday. He put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich has been sanctioned by the British government and the European Union over his links to Vladimir Putin. He has denied having close ties to the Russian President.

The British government on Wednesday authorised the sale to a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital, which had agreed terms to buy Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.35 billion). The Portuguese government issued a humanitarian waiver requested by Abramovich allowing the sale, the foreign ministry said, adding that the decision had been agreed with the European Commission.

"The Portuguese authorisation stems from the guarantee given by the British authorities that the proceeds from the sale will be used for humanitarian purposes, not benefiting directly or indirectly the owner of the club, who is on the sanctions list of the European Union," it said. The club, which had been operating under a government licence since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March, had earlier confirmed that the proceeds will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich.

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Earlier this month, Portugal blocked the sale of a 10 million euro ($10.4 million) luxury house over a "strong conviction" it belonged to Abramovich. The billionaire was granted Portuguese citizenship in April 2021 based on a law offering naturalisation to descendants of Sephardic Jews who were expelled from the Iberian peninsula during the Mediaeval Inquisition.

There is little known history of Sephardic Jews in Russia and the case sent shockwaves across Portugal, leading public prosecutors to launch an investigation and to the detention of a rabbi responsible for the certification that allowed Abramovich to obtain citizenship.

Portugal has given its blessing to the sale of Chelsea by Russian-born billionaire Roman Abramovich, who became a Portuguese citizen last year and is under European Union sanctions, the Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

Portugal has given its blessing to the sale of Chelsea by Russian-born billionaire Roman Abramovich, who became a Portuguese citizen last year and is under European Union sanctions, the Foreign Ministry said on Thursday. He put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich has been sanctioned by the British government and the European Union over his links to Vladimir Putin. He has denied having close ties to the Russian President. The British government on Wednesday authorised the sale to a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital, which had agreed terms to buy Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.35 billion). The Portuguese government issued a humanitarian waiver requested by Abramovich allowing the sale, the foreign ministry said, adding that the decision had been agreed with the European Commission. "The Portuguese authorisation stems from the guarantee given by the British authorities that the proceeds from the sale will be used for humanitarian purposes, not benefiting directly or indirectly the owner of the club, who is on the sanctions list of the European Union," it said. The club, which had been operating under a government licence since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March, had earlier confirmed that the proceeds will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. ALSO READ | Chelsea's £4.25 billion sale approved: How much did Roman Abramovich pay to buy the club in 2003? Earlier this month, Portugal blocked the sale of a 10 million euro ($10.4 million) luxury house over a "strong conviction" it belonged to Abramovich. The billionaire was granted Portuguese citizenship in April 2021 based on a law offering naturalisation to descendants of Sephardic Jews who were expelled from the Iberian peninsula during the Mediaeval Inquisition. There is little known history of Sephardic Jews in Russia and the case sent shockwaves across Portugal, leading public prosecutors to launch an investigation and to the detention of a rabbi responsible for the certification that allowed Abramovich to obtain citizenship.

Portugal gives sanctioned citizen Russian-born billionaire Roman Abramovich green light to sell Chelsea FC

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover.

The proposal also needs approval from the British government before the consortium can complete the acquisition, with a week remaining before the club`s current operating licence expires on May 31. "The Board has applied the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test (OADT) to all prospective Directors, and undertaken the necessary due diligence," the league said in a statement.

"The members of the consortium purchasing the club are affiliates of the Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., Todd Boehly, Hansjorg Wyss and Mark Walter." "Chelsea FC will now work with the relevant governments to secure the necessary licences to complete the takeover."

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The British government is set to approve the sale after Chelsea`s Russian owner Roman Abramovich gave assurances he will not benefit from the deal, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters. 
Currently subject to sanctions by the British government, Abramovich put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". 
Abramovich dismissed reports that he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.88 billion), to be repaid.

Chelsea previously confirmed all proceeds from the sale, which would be placed in a frozen UK bank account, will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover.

The Boehly-Clearlake consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test, the league said on Tuesday, paving the way for the club`s takeover. The proposal also needs approval from the British government before the consortium can complete the acquisition, with a week remaining before the club`s current operating licence expires on May 31. "The Board has applied the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test (OADT) to all prospective Directors, and undertaken the necessary due diligence," the league said in a statement. "The members of the consortium purchasing the club are affiliates of the Clearlake Capital Group, L.P., Todd Boehly, Hansjorg Wyss and Mark Walter." "Chelsea FC will now work with the relevant governments to secure the necessary licences to complete the takeover." ALSO READ | Robert Lewandowski to Frenkie De Jong: 5 biggest football transfers that can happen this summer The British government is set to approve the sale after Chelsea`s Russian owner Roman Abramovich gave assurances he will not benefit from the deal, a source familiar with the situation told Reuters. Currently subject to sanctions by the British government, Abramovich put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Abramovich dismissed reports that he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.88 billion), to be repaid. Chelsea previously confirmed all proceeds from the sale, which would be placed in a frozen UK bank account, will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

Premier League gives green signal to proposed takeover of Chelsea by Todd Boehly-led consortium

The UK government on Wednesday (May 25) approved Chelsea football club's sale to Todd Boehly-led consortium in a deal worth 4.25 billion pounds (around 5.2 billion USD). The approval of the club's sale marks an end to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich's 19-year-long ownership of the Blues. Abramovich had bought Chelsea in the year 2003 when the club had not won a single league title since the 1955/56 season. The Russian went on to transform Chelsea into one of the best football clubs in the world and inspired them to incredible success during his era.

Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale just two weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The invasion saw the UK government sanction Russian billionaires operating in the country, including Abramovich. The deal was approved on Wednesday after months of negotiations with the UK government ensuring that the proceeds from the sale will be frozen in a UK bank account.

The UK government also received legal guarantees that the sale will not benefit Abramovich, whose assets in the UK have already been frozen in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. While the ending of his reign at Chelsea is certainly not what Abramovich would have expected, he made the club a force to reckon with under his ownership.

Under Abramovich's ownership, Chelsea won as many as 21 major trophies, including an impressive five Premier League and 2 Champions League titles. Their latest Champions League triumph came under current manager Thomas Tuchel in the 2020-21 season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uk-government-approves-sale-of-chelsea-football-club-to-todd-boehly-led-consortium-482048">UK government approves sale of Chelsea Football Club to Todd Boehly-led consortium</a>

Chelsea also saw their former Russian owner spend a whopping 2.1 billion pounds (2.6 billion USD) on buying players while as many as 15 managers were roped in by the club to make Chelsea a dominant force in the Premier League and European football.&nbsp;

How much money did Roman Abramovich spend to buy Chelsea in 2003?

As per a reports in the English media, Abramovich bought Chelsea 19 years back for a sum of 140 million pounds (around 233 million USD at the time)&nbsp;from British businessman Ken Bates. Bates is the former owner of not only Chelsea football club but also Leeds United, who are currently playing in the Premier League after managing to avoid relegation in the recently-concluded season where they finished 17th on the points table.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-going-to-do-a-mbappe-luka-modrics-cheeky-response-on-potential-contract-extension-at-real-madrid-482119">'I'm not going to do a Mbappe': Modric's cheeky response on potential contract extension at Real Madrid</a>

Abramovich had paid only 60 million pounds for the club but the deal came with a 80 million debt attached to it which was taken care of by the Russian billionaire. Ever since the takeover by Abramovich, Chelsea went on to transform into one of the best clubs in the world and enjoyed tremendous success on the pitch.

From 140 million pounds in 2003, Chelsea's value rose to a staggerimg 2.4 billion pounds (USD 3.2 billion) in April 2021, as per a report in Forbes. However, KPMG in its Football Benchmark report in 2022 valued Chelsea at 1.56 billion pounds (USD 1.95 billion).

The UK government on Wednesday (May 25) approved Chelsea football club's sale to Todd Boehly-led consortium in a deal worth 4.25 billion pounds (around 5.2 billion USD).

The UK government on Wednesday (May 25) approved Chelsea football club's sale to Todd Boehly-led consortium in a deal worth 4.25 billion pounds (around 5.2 billion USD). The approval of the club's sale marks an end to Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich's 19-year-long ownership of the Blues. Abramovich had bought Chelsea in the year 2003 when the club had not won a single league title since the 1955/56 season. The Russian went on to transform Chelsea into one of the best football clubs in the world and inspired them to incredible success during his era. Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale just two weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The invasion saw the UK government sanction Russian billionaires operating in the country, including Abramovich. The deal was approved on Wednesday after months of negotiations with the UK government ensuring that the proceeds from the sale will be frozen in a UK bank account. The UK government also received legal guarantees that the sale will not benefit Abramovich, whose assets in the UK have already been frozen in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. While the ending of his reign at Chelsea is certainly not what Abramovich would have expected, he made the club a force to reckon with under his ownership. Under Abramovich's ownership, Chelsea won as many as 21 major trophies, including an impressive five Premier League and 2 Champions League titles. Their latest Champions League triumph came under current manager Thomas Tuchel in the 2020-21 season. Also Read: UK government approves sale of Chelsea Football Club to Todd Boehly-led consortium Chelsea also saw their former Russian owner spend a whopping 2.1 billion pounds (2.6 billion USD) on buying players while as many as 15 managers were roped in by the club to make Chelsea a dominant force in the Premier League and European football. How much money did Roman Abramovich spend to buy Chelsea in 2003? As per a reports in the English media, Abramovich bought Chelsea 19 years back for a sum of 140 million pounds (around 233 million USD at the time) from British businessman Ken Bates. Bates is the former owner of not only Chelsea football club but also Leeds United, who are currently playing in the Premier League after managing to avoid relegation in the recently-concluded season where they finished 17th on the points table. Also Read: 'I'm not going to do a Mbappe': Modric's cheeky response on potential contract extension at Real Madrid Abramovich had paid only 60 million pounds for the club but the deal came with a 80 million debt attached to it which was taken care of by the Russian billionaire. Ever since the takeover by Abramovich, Chelsea went on to transform into one of the best clubs in the world and enjoyed tremendous success on the pitch. From 140 million pounds in 2003, Chelsea's value rose to a staggerimg 2.4 billion pounds (USD 3.2 billion) in April 2021, as per a report in Forbes. However, KPMG in its Football Benchmark report in 2022 valued Chelsea at 1.56 billion pounds (USD 1.95 billion).

Chelsea's £4.25 billion sale approved: How much did Roman Abramovich pay to buy the club in 2003?

The British government has issued a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea to a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital, sports minister Nadine Dorries said on Wednesday. Current owner Roman Abramovich is subject to sanctions by the British government. He put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".

"We are satisfied the proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or other sanctioned individuals," Dorries said on Twitter.

"Given the sanctions we placed on those linked to Putin and the bloody invasion of Ukraine, the long-term future of the club can only be secured under a new owner."

On Tuesday the consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test.

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Chelsea had been operating under a government license since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31.

The club had earlier confirmed that all proceeds from the sale will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich.

"We are now satisfied that the full proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or any other sanctioned individual," said a government spokesperson.

"We will now begin the process of ensuring the proceeds of the sale are used for humanitarian causes in Ukraine, supporting victims of the war."

The completion of the sale will allow Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed.

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Only season ticket holders could earlier attend home matches, while the government also announced a ban on merchandise sales.

Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were eliminated from the bidding process, and a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

The British government has issued a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea to a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital, sports minister Nadine Dorries said on Wednesday.

The British government has issued a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea to a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital, sports minister Nadine Dorries said on Wednesday. Current owner Roman Abramovich is subject to sanctions by the British government. He put the London club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". "We are satisfied the proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or other sanctioned individuals," Dorries said on Twitter. "Given the sanctions we placed on those linked to Putin and the bloody invasion of Ukraine, the long-term future of the club can only be secured under a new owner." On Tuesday the consortium, which agreed terms to acquire Chelsea for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion) earlier this month, passed the Premier League Owners` and Directors` Test. Also Read: Chelsea's top five most expensive signings under Roman Abramovich Chelsea had been operating under a government license since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31. The club had earlier confirmed that all proceeds from the sale will be donated to charitable causes by Abramovich. "We are now satisfied that the full proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or any other sanctioned individual," said a government spokesperson. "We will now begin the process of ensuring the proceeds of the sale are used for humanitarian causes in Ukraine, supporting victims of the war." The completion of the sale will allow Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed. Also Read: Premier League gives green signal to proposed takeover of Chelsea by Todd Boehly-led consortium Only season ticket holders could earlier attend home matches, while the government also announced a ban on merchandise sales. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were eliminated from the bidding process, and a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

UK government approves sale of Chelsea Football Club to Todd Boehly-led consortium

Chelsea's board on Saturday (May 07) agreed a deal with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly to acquire the English Premier League (EPL) club from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. Chelsea confirmed that the deal is worth 4.25 billion pounds ($5.2 billion).

Abramovich's reign at Chelsea came to an abrupt end in March earlier this year when he put the club up for sale just days after his country Russia invaded Ukraine. The British government imposed strict sanctions on several Russian billionaires, including Abrahmovic forcing him to sell Chelsea.

The Boehly-led consortium is backed by Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter and Hansjoerg Wyss which would own the club now. Chelsea's sale is likely to be completed by the end of May, officially bringing an end to Abrahomvic's era at Stamford Bridge. Chelsae enjoyed incredible success under the Russian billionaire and achieved some illustrious feats which will remain engraved&nbsp;in the club's folklore.

Here is a look at how Chelsea fared in the Roman Abramovich era:

Glorious trophy cabinet - 21 major titles

Chelsea became a force to reckon with in the Premier League and European football in the Abramovich era as the club lifted almost every silverware possible in club football. Abramovich had bought the club in 2003 for a reported fee of around 140 million pounds. In his first season, Abrahmovic went on to spend over 100 million pounds on buying new players but the club failed to achieve any success under manager &nbsp;Claudio Ranieri.

The Italian was replaced by Jose Mourinho, who guided Chelsea to their first Premier League title in the Abramovich era in the 2004-05 season. Mourino won back-to-back titles in his first spell with the club as Chelsea won the Premier League once again the next season. They won three more Premier League crowns in the next 16 years.

Chelsea won a total of 5 Premier League titles, 2 Champions League crowns, 5 FA Cups, 3 League Cups, 2 Europa League titles, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, 1 UEFA Super Cup and 2 Community Shields under Abramovich's&nbsp;ownership.

Their first won the Champions League in 2012 when Mourinho guided the Blues to their maiden title before claiming their second Champions League crown under current manager Thomas Tuchel last season. Chelsea are the reigning European champions.

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13 managers&nbsp;

Abramovich rarely compromised with the standards at Chelsea and always ensured he had the best possible candidate as the manager of the club during his reign. His pursuit of success saw the Russian owner have as many as 13 managers coach the first team in 20 years.

Only two of the 13 coaches were handed another stint at the club in search of success while others were pushed out after just one spell. Mourinho, who enjoyed a terrific first spell at the club from 2004 to 2007 was sacked in 2007 despite having won two Premier League and a Champions League trophies during his stint with the Blues.

Guus Hiddink, who managed the club for a few months in 2009 as an interim manager, returned as the full-time manager in 2015 and was once again put in charge midway through the season to the end of it.

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Here is a look at all the managers who coached Chelsea in the Abramovich era:

Claudio Ranieri&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho&nbsp;

Avram Grant&nbsp;

Luis Felipe Scolari&nbsp;

Guus Hiddink&nbsp;

Carlo Ancelotti&nbsp;

Andre Villas-Boas&nbsp;

Roberto Di Matteo&nbsp;

Rafa Benitez&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho

Guus Hiddink&nbsp;

Antonio Conte&nbsp;

Maurizio Sarri

Frank Lampard

Thomas Tuchel&nbsp;

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Abramovich&nbsp;rarely shied away from spending big to bring in quality players at Stamford Bridge to ensure the club always had a world-class squad to fight it out across all competitions. His financial backing was one of the key reasons behind Chelsea's redemption under his ownership as the Russian spent a whopping&nbsp;£2.1 billion on acquiring players.

Romelu Lukaku, who was signed by Chelsea for a fee of nearly&nbsp;£100 million from Interm Milan last year, remains the most expensive signing in the club's history.

&nbsp;

Chelsea's board on Saturday (May 07) agreed a deal with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly to acquire the English Premier League (EPL) club from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

Chelsea's board on Saturday (May 07) agreed a deal with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly to acquire the English Premier League (EPL) club from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. Chelsea confirmed that the deal is worth 4.25 billion pounds ($5.2 billion). Abramovich's reign at Chelsea came to an abrupt end in March earlier this year when he put the club up for sale just days after his country Russia invaded Ukraine. The British government imposed strict sanctions on several Russian billionaires, including Abrahmovic forcing him to sell Chelsea. The Boehly-led consortium is backed by Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter and Hansjoerg Wyss which would own the club now. Chelsea's sale is likely to be completed by the end of May, officially bringing an end to Abrahomvic's era at Stamford Bridge. Chelsae enjoyed incredible success under the Russian billionaire and achieved some illustrious feats which will remain engraved in the club's folklore. Here is a look at how Chelsea fared in the Roman Abramovich era: Glorious trophy cabinet - 21 major titles Chelsea became a force to reckon with in the Premier League and European football in the Abramovich era as the club lifted almost every silverware possible in club football. Abramovich had bought the club in 2003 for a reported fee of around 140 million pounds. In his first season, Abrahmovic went on to spend over 100 million pounds on buying new players but the club failed to achieve any success under manager Claudio Ranieri. The Italian was replaced by Jose Mourinho, who guided Chelsea to their first Premier League title in the Abramovich era in the 2004-05 season. Mourino won back-to-back titles in his first spell with the club as Chelsea won the Premier League once again the next season. They won three more Premier League crowns in the next 16 years. Chelsea won a total of 5 Premier League titles, 2 Champions League crowns, 5 FA Cups, 3 League Cups, 2 Europa League titles, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, 1 UEFA Super Cup and 2 Community Shields under Abramovich's ownership. Their first won the Champions League in 2012 when Mourinho guided the Blues to their maiden title before claiming their second Champions League crown under current manager Thomas Tuchel last season. Chelsea are the reigning European champions. × Also Read: Tom Boehly-led consortium to purchase Chelsea football club for USD 5.2 billion 13 managers Abramovich rarely compromised with the standards at Chelsea and always ensured he had the best possible candidate as the manager of the club during his reign. His pursuit of success saw the Russian owner have as many as 13 managers coach the first team in 20 years. Only two of the 13 coaches were handed another stint at the club in search of success while others were pushed out after just one spell. Mourinho, who enjoyed a terrific first spell at the club from 2004 to 2007 was sacked in 2007 despite having won two Premier League and a Champions League trophies during his stint with the Blues. Guus Hiddink, who managed the club for a few months in 2009 as an interim manager, returned as the full-time manager in 2015 and was once again put in charge midway through the season to the end of it. × Here is a look at all the managers who coached Chelsea in the Abramovich era: Claudio Ranieri Jose Mourinho Avram Grant Luis Felipe Scolari Guus Hiddink Carlo Ancelotti Andre Villas-Boas Roberto Di Matteo Rafa Benitez Jose Mourinho Guus Hiddink Antonio Conte Maurizio Sarri Frank Lampard Thomas Tuchel Also Read: Manchester United board rejected request to sign a striker in January transfer window, reveals Ralf Rangnick Abramovich rarely shied away from spending big to bring in quality players at Stamford Bridge to ensure the club always had a world-class squad to fight it out across all competitions. His financial backing was one of the key reasons behind Chelsea's redemption under his ownership as the Russian spent a whopping £2.1 billion on acquiring players. Romelu Lukaku, who was signed by Chelsea for a fee of nearly £100 million from Interm Milan last year, remains the most expensive signing in the club's history.

5 Premier League titles, 13 managers:  A look at how Chelsea fared in the Roman Abramovich era

Chelsea Football Club has confirmed that terms have been agreed with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital over the acquisition of the English Premier League soccer team.

The Stamford Bridge-based outfit announced the 4.25 billion pound ($5.2 billion) deal for the reigning European champions in a statement issued in the early hours of Saturday, subject to receiving the required approvals.

"Chelsea Football Club can confirm that terms have been agreed for a new ownership group, led by Todd Boehly, Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter and Hansjoerg Wyss, to acquire the club," the statement said.

"The sale is expected to complete in late May subject to all necessary regulatory approvals. More details will be provided at that time."

Chelsea said the new owners would pay 2.5 billion pounds to purchase shares while committing a further 1.75 billion pounds to invest in the stadium, women`s team, the academy and the Chelsea Foundation.

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The statement confirmed all proceeds would be placed in a frozen UK bank account and Russian owner Roman Abramovich, who is currently subject to sanctions by the British government, would donate all of the proceeds to charitable causes.

The announcement comes with just over three weeks remaining on the club`s current operating licence, which expires on May 31. Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following his country`s invasion of Ukraine. 
He cleared the path for the takeover on Thursday after dismissing reports he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.9 billion), to be repaid.

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The Boehly group, which also includes Swiss billionaire Wyss, were in exclusive negotiations to buy the club after a late bid from British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe was rejected.

Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

Chelsea Football Club has confirmed that terms have been agreed with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital over the acquisition of the English Premier League soccer team.

Chelsea Football Club has confirmed that terms have been agreed with a consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly and backed by Clearlake Capital over the acquisition of the English Premier League soccer team. The Stamford Bridge-based outfit announced the 4.25 billion pound ($5.2 billion) deal for the reigning European champions in a statement issued in the early hours of Saturday, subject to receiving the required approvals. "Chelsea Football Club can confirm that terms have been agreed for a new ownership group, led by Todd Boehly, Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter and Hansjoerg Wyss, to acquire the club," the statement said. "The sale is expected to complete in late May subject to all necessary regulatory approvals. More details will be provided at that time." Chelsea said the new owners would pay 2.5 billion pounds to purchase shares while committing a further 1.75 billion pounds to invest in the stadium, women`s team, the academy and the Chelsea Foundation. Also Read: Watch - West Ham boss Moyes smashes ball towards kid during Eintracht Frankfurt loss, apologises The statement confirmed all proceeds would be placed in a frozen UK bank account and Russian owner Roman Abramovich, who is currently subject to sanctions by the British government, would donate all of the proceeds to charitable causes. The announcement comes with just over three weeks remaining on the club`s current operating licence, which expires on May 31. Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following his country`s invasion of Ukraine. He cleared the path for the takeover on Thursday after dismissing reports he wanted a loan given to the club, reportedly worth 1.5 billion pounds ($1.9 billion), to be repaid. Also Read: 'Karim Benzema is worthy of Ballon d''Or' - Fernando Hierro lauds Real Madrid striker The Boehly group, which also includes Swiss billionaire Wyss, were in exclusive negotiations to buy the club after a late bid from British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe was rejected. Groups led by Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca and former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton were earlier eliminated from the bidding process while a consortium led by Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family pulled out of the running.

Tom Boehly-led consortium to purchase Chelsea football club for USD 5.2 billion

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe said he was not giving up a bid to buy Chelsea despite apparent rejection from the U.S. bank handling the sale of the Premier League club. The head of chemical company INEOS announced last Friday a last minute offer of 4.25 billion pounds ($5.35 billion) but a consortium led by LA Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly is considered the preferred bidder.

Russian owner Roman Abramovich, now subject to sanctions by the British government, put the West London club up for sale after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. "We presented them (New York bank Raine) with an offer at the end of last week, we haven`t heard a great deal back from them which is a bit disappointing," Ratcliffe told the BBC on Wednesday.

"I`d say don`t discount our offer, we are very British and we`ve got great intentions for Chelsea," he added when asked what his message to those overseeing the sale would be. The Daily Telegraph earlier quoted Ineos communications director Tom Crotty saying Raine had ruled out the company`s bid.

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"We’ve had an email to say, ‘forget it, you’re not in the process’," he said. "That was from Raine, but we’re not giving up because we believe what we’ve got is a bid that makes good sense for the club." Ratcliffe recognised his move had been late but said it had taken time to reach a fully committed decision. 
"We got there at the end of the day and we now are quite committed to that proposal that we`ve made," he said. "We`re not giving up."

Boehly`s consortium includes Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss and British property investor Jonathan Goldstein.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe said he was not giving up a bid to buy Chelsea despite apparent rejection from the U.S. bank handling the sale of the Premier League club.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe said he was not giving up a bid to buy Chelsea despite apparent rejection from the U.S. bank handling the sale of the Premier League club. The head of chemical company INEOS announced last Friday a last minute offer of 4.25 billion pounds ($5.35 billion) but a consortium led by LA Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly is considered the preferred bidder. Russian owner Roman Abramovich, now subject to sanctions by the British government, put the West London club up for sale after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine. "We presented them (New York bank Raine) with an offer at the end of last week, we haven`t heard a great deal back from them which is a bit disappointing," Ratcliffe told the BBC on Wednesday. "I`d say don`t discount our offer, we are very British and we`ve got great intentions for Chelsea," he added when asked what his message to those overseeing the sale would be. The Daily Telegraph earlier quoted Ineos communications director Tom Crotty saying Raine had ruled out the company`s bid. ALSO READ | Real Madrid rallies past Manchester City to reach UEFA Champions League final "We’ve had an email to say, ‘forget it, you’re not in the process’," he said. "That was from Raine, but we’re not giving up because we believe what we’ve got is a bid that makes good sense for the club." Ratcliffe recognised his move had been late but said it had taken time to reach a fully committed decision. "We got there at the end of the day and we now are quite committed to that proposal that we`ve made," he said. "We`re not giving up." Boehly`s consortium includes Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss and British property investor Jonathan Goldstein.

British tycoon Sir Jim Ratcliffe not giving up on Chelsea bid despite apparent rejection

American investor Steve Pagliuca`s group is out of the running to purchase Premier League side Chelsea, his spokesperson said on Friday, but British businessman Jim Ratcliffe says he has made a late bid to buy the London club. Chelsea were put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich in March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government.

American bank Raine is handling the sale and the spokesperson for Pagliuca`s group said they had been told by the bank that they were not the `preferred bidder` so were out of contention. Raine were not immediately reachable for comment.

Pagliuca had teamed up with NBA chairman Larry Tanenbaum, who is owner of the Canadian company Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, which owns a number of professional sports franchises in Toronto. 
British billionaire Ratcliffe, chairman of chemical company INEOS, currently owns French club OGC Nice and the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team said he had made a `formal bid` to buy the club for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion).

"This is a British bid, for a British club," INEOS said in a statement. "We believe that London should have a club that reflects the stature of the city. One that is held in the same regard as Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern Munich. We intend Chelsea to be that club.

"We are making this investment as fans of the beautiful game – not as a means to turn a profit. We do that with our core businesses. The club is rooted in its community and its fans. And it is our intention to invest in Chelsea FC for that reason," the statement added.

Ineos said that 2.5bn pounds was committed to the Charitable Trust to support victims of the war, while 1.75bn was for "investment directly into the club over the next 10 years". LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly is heading another consortium as is former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton whose bid is backed by Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and tennis star Serena Williams.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday that Boehly was "set to enter exclusive talks" over acquiring Chelsea. A spokesperson for Boehly did not immediately respond to request for comment.

American investor Steve Pagliuca`s group is out of the running to purchase Premier League side Chelsea, his spokesperson said on Friday, but British businessman Jim Ratcliffe says he has made a late bid to buy the London club.

American investor Steve Pagliuca`s group is out of the running to purchase Premier League side Chelsea, his spokesperson said on Friday, but British businessman Jim Ratcliffe says he has made a late bid to buy the London club. Chelsea were put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich in March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government. American bank Raine is handling the sale and the spokesperson for Pagliuca`s group said they had been told by the bank that they were not the `preferred bidder` so were out of contention. Raine were not immediately reachable for comment. Pagliuca had teamed up with NBA chairman Larry Tanenbaum, who is owner of the Canadian company Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment, which owns a number of professional sports franchises in Toronto. British billionaire Ratcliffe, chairman of chemical company INEOS, currently owns French club OGC Nice and the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team said he had made a `formal bid` to buy the club for 4.25 billion pounds ($5.33 billion). "This is a British bid, for a British club," INEOS said in a statement. "We believe that London should have a club that reflects the stature of the city. One that is held in the same regard as Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern Munich. We intend Chelsea to be that club. "We are making this investment as fans of the beautiful game – not as a means to turn a profit. We do that with our core businesses. The club is rooted in its community and its fans. And it is our intention to invest in Chelsea FC for that reason," the statement added. Ineos said that 2.5bn pounds was committed to the Charitable Trust to support victims of the war, while 1.75bn was for "investment directly into the club over the next 10 years". LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly is heading another consortium as is former British Airways chairman Martin Broughton whose bid is backed by Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton and tennis star Serena Williams. The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday that Boehly was "set to enter exclusive talks" over acquiring Chelsea. A spokesperson for Boehly did not immediately respond to request for comment.

American investor Steve Pagliuca out of running for Chelsea, British tycoon Jim Ratcliffe makes bid

American investor Stephen Pagliuca hinted on Tuesday at being prepared to divest his interest in Italian club Atalanta to buy Premier League side Chelsea as he prepares to submit a bid this week.

Pagliuca, who is the joint owner of NBA team Boston Celtics, agreed to buy into Serie A club Atalanta in February, buying 55% of La Dea, the holding owned by Italy`s Percassi family, which owns around 86% of the club.

"Later this week, we will submit a substantial and credible bid proposal – one that we&nbsp;expect will&nbsp;meet the respective requirements and regulations of the Premier League, UK Government and UEFA," Pagliuca said in a statement.

"We&nbsp;pledge to honour our commitment to credibility and&nbsp;good&nbsp;guardianship of Chelsea Football Club from day one." 
Under European soccer governing body UEFA`s rules, two clubs participating in the same competition cannot be directly or indirectly controlled by the same entity or managed by the same person.

If two or more clubs do not meet this criteria, only one may be admitted to the competition based on sporting merit and ranking of associations -- in this case, Chelsea.

Both Atalanta and Chelsea played in the Champions League this season, with the Serie A side knocked out in the group stages. Chelsea trail Real Madrid 3-1 in the quarter-finals ahead of Tuesday`s second leg.

The American said his first focus was to invest in the team so they could continue competing for trophies such as the Premier League, Champions League or the Women`s Super League.

"(The Women`s Super League is) the only Super League we intend competing in, for the record," he said, referring to last year`s plans by Europe`s top clubs for a breakaway league fell through.

Pagliuca added he was committed to having Chelsea remain at Stamford Bridge and was "inspired to renovate or redevelop the stadium".

"Chelsea is a world-class team, in a world-class city, with world-class fans: it deserves a world-class stadium," he said.

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Pagliuca`s bid is one of many short-listed to buy the London club. The Ricketts family, who own the Chicago Cubs baseball team, is another and they strengthened their bid team with the appointment of Lord Karan Bilimoria, the founder of Cobra Beer.

"The move will further boost the bid team`s credentials and its connection with UK business, sport and politics," they said in a statement.

"Lord Bilimoria would join the Board of Chelsea as a Director if the bid is successful. He will act as an ambassador and support the club`s philanthropic programmes."

Bilimoria said he has been a Chelsea season ticket holder for many years.

"When Tom Ricketts approached me to discuss a leading role in his bid group, there was no way I could refuse," he said.

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Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. The club`s sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group.

American investor Stephen Pagliuca hinted on Tuesday at being prepared to divest his interest in Italian club Atalanta to buy Premier League side Chelsea as he prepares to submit a bid this week.

American investor Stephen Pagliuca hinted on Tuesday at being prepared to divest his interest in Italian club Atalanta to buy Premier League side Chelsea as he prepares to submit a bid this week. Pagliuca, who is the joint owner of NBA team Boston Celtics, agreed to buy into Serie A club Atalanta in February, buying 55% of La Dea, the holding owned by Italy`s Percassi family, which owns around 86% of the club. "Later this week, we will submit a substantial and credible bid proposal – one that we expect will meet the respective requirements and regulations of the Premier League, UK Government and UEFA," Pagliuca said in a statement. "We pledge to honour our commitment to credibility and good guardianship of Chelsea Football Club from day one." Under European soccer governing body UEFA`s rules, two clubs participating in the same competition cannot be directly or indirectly controlled by the same entity or managed by the same person. If two or more clubs do not meet this criteria, only one may be admitted to the competition based on sporting merit and ranking of associations -- in this case, Chelsea. Both Atalanta and Chelsea played in the Champions League this season, with the Serie A side knocked out in the group stages. Chelsea trail Real Madrid 3-1 in the quarter-finals ahead of Tuesday`s second leg. The American said his first focus was to invest in the team so they could continue competing for trophies such as the Premier League, Champions League or the Women`s Super League. "(The Women`s Super League is) the only Super League we intend competing in, for the record," he said, referring to last year`s plans by Europe`s top clubs for a breakaway league fell through. Pagliuca added he was committed to having Chelsea remain at Stamford Bridge and was "inspired to renovate or redevelop the stadium". "Chelsea is a world-class team, in a world-class city, with world-class fans: it deserves a world-class stadium," he said. Also Read: I still have 'four or five years' at the top level, says PSG star Sergio Ramos Pagliuca`s bid is one of many short-listed to buy the London club. The Ricketts family, who own the Chicago Cubs baseball team, is another and they strengthened their bid team with the appointment of Lord Karan Bilimoria, the founder of Cobra Beer. "The move will further boost the bid team`s credentials and its connection with UK business, sport and politics," they said in a statement. "Lord Bilimoria would join the Board of Chelsea as a Director if the bid is successful. He will act as an ambassador and support the club`s philanthropic programmes." Bilimoria said he has been a Chelsea season ticket holder for many years. "When Tom Ricketts approached me to discuss a leading role in his bid group, there was no way I could refuse," he said. Also Read: Real Madrid won't take Chelsea lightly, says Casemiro ahead of Champions League clash Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. The club`s sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group.

Boston Celtics co-owner Stephen Pagliuca confirms bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said Abramovich, worth more than 9 billion pounds (USD 11 billion), is on a new list of seven wealthy Russians whose business empires, wealth and connections are closely associated with the Kremlin.

These oligarchs, with a collective net worth of around 15 billion pounds (USD 19 billion), will have their assets in the UK frozen, be banned from travelling to Britain and no UK citizen or company would be allowed to do business with them.

"There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine,"&nbsp;said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

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"Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies," he said.

Given the significant impact that sanctions on Abramovich would have on the Chelsea Football Club and potential knock on effects, the UK government has also published a licence which authorises a number of football-related activities to continue at Chelsea.

This includes permissions for the club to continue playing matches and other football related activity which will in turn protect the Premier League, the wider football pyramid, fans and other clubs.

"This licence will only allow certain explicitly named actions to ensure the designated individual is not able to circumvent UK sanctions. The licence will be kept under constant review and we will work closely with the football authorities,"&nbsp;the FCDO said.

Others newly-sanctioned by the UK include leading industrialist Oleg Deripaska worth 2 billion pounds (USD 2.6 billion), and Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin.

A further group of Russia-based oligarchs close to Putin have also been placed under sanction&nbsp;including Andrey Kostin, Chairman of VTB bank; Alexei Miller, CEO of energy company Gazprom; Nikolai Tokarev, president of the Russia state-owned pipeline company Transneft; and Dmitri Lebedev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bank Rossiya.

"Today's sanctions show once again that oligarchs and kleptocrats have no place in our economy or society. With their close links to Putin they are complicit in his aggression,"&nbsp;said UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss.

"The blood of the Ukrainian people is on their hands. They should hang their heads in shame. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not stop in this mission to ramp up the pressure on the Putin regime and choke off funds to his brutal war machine," she said.

The sanctions are described as the latest step in the UK's response to Putin's illegal and "unprovoked invasion", designed to ensure he fails in Ukraine by crippling Russia's economy supporting his war machine.

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The FCDO said the UK has been at the forefront of this effort, shutting out large proportions of whole sectors of the Russian economy, such as its defence industry, its financial institutions and its transport sector.

The UK has previously sanctioned more than 200 of Russia's most significant and high-value individuals, entities and subsidiaries since the conflict began, with over 500 of them now covered by the UK's sanctions list.

Britain's fast-tracked Economic Crime Bill, which comes into force next week, is designed to significantly simplify the process of imposing sanctions, allow the UK to more easily sanction individuals, stop oligarchs threatening the UK with multi-million pound lawsuits for damages at the taxpayer's expense and also allow the UK to mirror allies' designations.

"The UK will keep going further, faster and deeper to punish Putin's regime for this callous war,"&nbsp;the FCDO said, adding that it will continue to lead global efforts to provide Ukraine with economic, diplomatic, humanitarian and defensive support.

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin.

Roman Abramovich, one of the world's richest men who owns the Chelsea Football Club in the UK, was on Thursday added to the UK government's sanctions list against Russian oligarchs with known links with President Vladimir Putin. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said Abramovich, worth more than 9 billion pounds (USD 11 billion), is on a new list of seven wealthy Russians whose business empires, wealth and connections are closely associated with the Kremlin. These oligarchs, with a collective net worth of around 15 billion pounds (USD 19 billion), will have their assets in the UK frozen, be banned from travelling to Britain and no UK citizen or company would be allowed to do business with them. "There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine," said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. ALSO READ: Ligue 1: Kylian Mbappe, Neymar bag hat-tricks as Paris St-Germain thrash Clermont 6-1 "Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies," he said. Given the significant impact that sanctions on Abramovich would have on the Chelsea Football Club and potential knock on effects, the UK government has also published a licence which authorises a number of football-related activities to continue at Chelsea. This includes permissions for the club to continue playing matches and other football related activity which will in turn protect the Premier League, the wider football pyramid, fans and other clubs. "This licence will only allow certain explicitly named actions to ensure the designated individual is not able to circumvent UK sanctions. The licence will be kept under constant review and we will work closely with the football authorities," the FCDO said. Others newly-sanctioned by the UK include leading industrialist Oleg Deripaska worth 2 billion pounds (USD 2.6 billion), and Rosneft CEO Igor Sechin. A further group of Russia-based oligarchs close to Putin have also been placed under sanction including Andrey Kostin, Chairman of VTB bank; Alexei Miller, CEO of energy company Gazprom; Nikolai Tokarev, president of the Russia state-owned pipeline company Transneft; and Dmitri Lebedev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bank Rossiya. "Today's sanctions show once again that oligarchs and kleptocrats have no place in our economy or society. With their close links to Putin they are complicit in his aggression," said UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss. "The blood of the Ukrainian people is on their hands. They should hang their heads in shame. Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not stop in this mission to ramp up the pressure on the Putin regime and choke off funds to his brutal war machine," she said. The sanctions are described as the latest step in the UK's response to Putin's illegal and "unprovoked invasion", designed to ensure he fails in Ukraine by crippling Russia's economy supporting his war machine. ALSO READ: Serie A: Dusan Vlahovic strikes as Juventus earn crucial win against Cagliari The FCDO said the UK has been at the forefront of this effort, shutting out large proportions of whole sectors of the Russian economy, such as its defence industry, its financial institutions and its transport sector. The UK has previously sanctioned more than 200 of Russia's most significant and high-value individuals, entities and subsidiaries since the conflict began, with over 500 of them now covered by the UK's sanctions list. Britain's fast-tracked Economic Crime Bill, which comes into force next week, is designed to significantly simplify the process of imposing sanctions, allow the UK to more easily sanction individuals, stop oligarchs threatening the UK with multi-million pound lawsuits for damages at the taxpayer's expense and also allow the UK to mirror allies' designations. "The UK will keep going further, faster and deeper to punish Putin's regime for this callous war," the FCDO said, adding that it will continue to lead global efforts to provide Ukraine with economic, diplomatic, humanitarian and defensive support.

UK govt adds Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich in sanctions list against Russian oligarchs for Putin link

AC Milan owners Elliott Management have joined the Nick Candy-led Blue Football consortium as a "minor investor" in their bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea, sources close to the deal told Reuters.

Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club.

Bidders were expecting to hear back from U.S. bank Raine Group, who are overseeing the sale in conjunction with Chelsea, as to whether they had made a narrowed shortlist earlier this week, but sources said bid revisions have slowed the process.

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British property developer Candy's bid was increased on Monday after being joined by "another large Korean financial institution", they said in a statement, with sources adding the consortium has grown further on Thursday.

Elliott Management, an American hedgefund business, have injected a "multi-million pound sum" into the bid, the sources told Reuters.

Elliott became Milan owners in 2018 and have since helped the Italian giants become much more competitive in Serie A. They top the standings and are chasing their first league title in 11 years.

Representatives from Elliott did not immediately respond to Reuters'&nbsp;requests for comment.

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Candy had initially been joined in his consortium by South Korean companies Hana Financial Group and C&amp;P Sports Limited before the new investors got on board.

Others who have made their offers public include Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family as well as the pairing of former Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.

London-based global investment firm Centricus also said they had offered to buy Chelsea, a move driven by co-founder Nizar Al-Bassam and CEO Garth Ritchie, who are said to be season-ticket holders.

AC Milan owners Elliott Management have joined the Nick Candy-led Blue Football consortium as a "minor investor" in their bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea, sources close to the deal told Reuters.

AC Milan owners Elliott Management have joined the Nick Candy-led Blue Football consortium as a "minor investor" in their bid to buy Premier League club Chelsea, sources close to the deal told Reuters. Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. Bidders were expecting to hear back from U.S. bank Raine Group, who are overseeing the sale in conjunction with Chelsea, as to whether they had made a narrowed shortlist earlier this week, but sources said bid revisions have slowed the process. ALSO READ: Chelsea allowed to sell tickets after UK govt amends licence British property developer Candy's bid was increased on Monday after being joined by "another large Korean financial institution", they said in a statement, with sources adding the consortium has grown further on Thursday. Elliott Management, an American hedgefund business, have injected a "multi-million pound sum" into the bid, the sources told Reuters. Elliott became Milan owners in 2018 and have since helped the Italian giants become much more competitive in Serie A. They top the standings and are chasing their first league title in 11 years. Representatives from Elliott did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. ALSO READ: UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028 Candy had initially been joined in his consortium by South Korean companies Hana Financial Group and C&P Sports Limited before the new investors got on board. Others who have made their offers public include Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family as well as the pairing of former Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. London-based global investment firm Centricus also said they had offered to buy Chelsea, a move driven by co-founder Nizar Al-Bassam and CEO Garth Ritchie, who are said to be season-ticket holders.

AC Milan owners Elliott Management join Nick Candy-led Blue Football consortium in bid for Chelsea

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday.

Chelsea will not receive any revenue from the ticket sales, the DCMS added, with all proceeds going to relevant competition organisers.

Premier League Chelsea were unable to sell tickets due to British government restrictions after sanctions were imposed on the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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"Since Roman Abramovich was added to the UK's sanctions list for his links to (Russian president) Vladimir Putin, we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced," sports minister Nigel Huddleston said.

"I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible."

Chelsea cannot sell tickets to home fans for home league games but away supporters will be able to buy tickets for matches at Stamford Bridge, with revenue going to the Premier League.

The club will be able to sell tickets for their Champions League quarter-final at home to Real Madrid on April 6 and the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Crystal Palace 10 days later.

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"Revenue will go via the Premier League to the relevant competition organiser or home club rather than Chelsea FC in order to remain compliant with current sanctions," the government added.

Chelsea season-ticket holders and those supporters who bought tickets before the sanctions can attend Premier League home games, but an exception has been made for fixtures in the Women`s Super League as "there is a risk of empty stands for these matches".

Additionally, Chelsea supporters can purchase tickets for away Premier League games with all proceeds going to the host team.

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Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club.

The club's sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group, which plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three.

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday.

Chelsea supporters will be able to buy tickets to away games, cup games and women's fixtures after the British government amended the club's special licence, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said on Wednesday. Chelsea will not receive any revenue from the ticket sales, the DCMS added, with all proceeds going to relevant competition organisers. Premier League Chelsea were unable to sell tickets due to British government restrictions after sanctions were imposed on the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ: UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028 "Since Roman Abramovich was added to the UK's sanctions list for his links to (Russian president) Vladimir Putin, we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced," sports minister Nigel Huddleston said. "I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible." Chelsea cannot sell tickets to home fans for home league games but away supporters will be able to buy tickets for matches at Stamford Bridge, with revenue going to the Premier League. The club will be able to sell tickets for their Champions League quarter-final at home to Real Madrid on April 6 and the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley against Crystal Palace 10 days later. ALSO READ: Chelsea bidders shortlist to be cut to three, Nick Candy increases bid "Revenue will go via the Premier League to the relevant competition organiser or home club rather than Chelsea FC in order to remain compliant with current sanctions," the government added. Chelsea season-ticket holders and those supporters who bought tickets before the sanctions can attend Premier League home games, but an exception has been made for fixtures in the Women`s Super League as "there is a risk of empty stands for these matches". Additionally, Chelsea supporters can purchase tickets for away Premier League games with all proceeds going to the host team. ALSO READ: FA Cup: Liverpool to play Man City in semis after close 1-0 win against Nottingham, Palace to face Chelsea Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia's invasion and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. The club's sale is being overseen by U.S. bank Raine Group, which plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three.

Chelsea allowed to sell tickets after UK govt amends licence

Raine Group, the U.S. bank overseeing the sale of Premier League club Chelsea, plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three on Monday or Tuesday, sources told Reuters, with one consortium lead by Nick Candy increasing their offer.

Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club.

Raine set a deadline of 2100 GMT last Friday for bids to be put forward, with several being made public, while sources close to the deal said many more had been submitted privately.

To move things forward, Reuters has been told that Raine, in consultation with the club, will narrow down the shortlist, with the process slowed by revised bids still coming in.

One of the three bidders who made their offers public on Friday, Candy`s Blue Football consortium, revised their bid on Monday, they told Reuters in a statement, after being joined by "another large Korean financial institution."

British property developer Candy submitted a bid of over two billion pounds ($2.63 billion) to Raine on Friday, but has since increased his offer "significantly", without disclosing by how much or the name of the new investor.

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He had already been joined in his consortium by South Korean companies Hana Financial Group and C&amp;P Sports Limited before the new investors got on board.

"The Blue Football Consortium has access to immediate capital with funds readily available for deployment from day one," Brian Gordon, partner of Squire Patton Boggs, the law firm working with the Blue Football Consortium, said.

"The bid is sourced from credible co-venturers whose attitude towards governance is top rated."

Preferred&nbsp;Buyers

Over the next few weeks, a preferred buyer or buyers will be submitted to the government who must issue a special licence for any sale and who require evidence that Abramovich will not make any financial gain. 
From there it will be up to the prospective buyer to pass the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test before completing a takeover.

The test outlines factors that would prohibit an individual from becoming an owner or director of a club. 
These include criminal convictions for a wide range of offences, a ban by a sporting or professional body and breaches of certain key football regulations, such as match-fixing.

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Along with Candy`s bid, the two other consortiums who made their offers public last week were the Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family, and the pairing of former Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.

Some bids are only being made public now, with London-based global investment firm Centricus confirming on Monday that they had offered to buy Chelsea, a move driven by co-founder Nizar Al-Bassam and CEO Garth Ritchie, who are said to be season-ticket holders.

British media reports have named several other bidders, including Saudi Media, headed by businessman Mohamed Alkhereiji.

Candy`s bid, while not assured of being on the shortlist, said on Monday that they had held initial discussions with tech platform PrimaryBid, with a view to potentially considering a community enfranchisement model for Chelsea, should the bid be successful, focused on improving fan involvement and engagement.

Raine Group, the U.S. bank overseeing the sale of Premier League club Chelsea, plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three on Monday or Tuesday, sources told Reuters, with one consortium lead by Nick Candy increasing their offer.

Raine Group, the U.S. bank overseeing the sale of Premier League club Chelsea, plans to narrow down the shortlist of bidders to three on Monday or Tuesday, sources told Reuters, with one consortium lead by Nick Candy increasing their offer. Chelsea were initially put up for sale by owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine and before sanctions were imposed on the oligarch by the British government, effectively giving it control of the club. Raine set a deadline of 2100 GMT last Friday for bids to be put forward, with several being made public, while sources close to the deal said many more had been submitted privately. To move things forward, Reuters has been told that Raine, in consultation with the club, will narrow down the shortlist, with the process slowed by revised bids still coming in. One of the three bidders who made their offers public on Friday, Candy`s Blue Football consortium, revised their bid on Monday, they told Reuters in a statement, after being joined by "another large Korean financial institution." British property developer Candy submitted a bid of over two billion pounds ($2.63 billion) to Raine on Friday, but has since increased his offer "significantly", without disclosing by how much or the name of the new investor. Also Read: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scripts unique El Clasico record with stunning brace as Barca thrash Real Madrid He had already been joined in his consortium by South Korean companies Hana Financial Group and C&P Sports Limited before the new investors got on board. "The Blue Football Consortium has access to immediate capital with funds readily available for deployment from day one," Brian Gordon, partner of Squire Patton Boggs, the law firm working with the Blue Football Consortium, said. "The bid is sourced from credible co-venturers whose attitude towards governance is top rated." Preferred Buyers Over the next few weeks, a preferred buyer or buyers will be submitted to the government who must issue a special licence for any sale and who require evidence that Abramovich will not make any financial gain. From there it will be up to the prospective buyer to pass the Premier League`s Owners` and Directors` Test before completing a takeover. The test outlines factors that would prohibit an individual from becoming an owner or director of a club. These include criminal convictions for a wide range of offences, a ban by a sporting or professional body and breaches of certain key football regulations, such as match-fixing. Also Read: FA Cup: Chelsea continue to ignore off-field turmoil with 2-0 win over Middlesbrough to enter semi-finals Along with Candy`s bid, the two other consortiums who made their offers public last week were the Chicago Cubs owners the Ricketts family, and the pairing of former Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe. Some bids are only being made public now, with London-based global investment firm Centricus confirming on Monday that they had offered to buy Chelsea, a move driven by co-founder Nizar Al-Bassam and CEO Garth Ritchie, who are said to be season-ticket holders. British media reports have named several other bidders, including Saudi Media, headed by businessman Mohamed Alkhereiji. Candy`s bid, while not assured of being on the shortlist, said on Monday that they had held initial discussions with tech platform PrimaryBid, with a view to potentially considering a community enfranchisement model for Chelsea, should the bid be successful, focused on improving fan involvement and engagement.

Chelsea bidders shortlist to be cut to three, Nick Candy increases bid

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

First-half goals by Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech knocked the stuffing out of second-tier Middlesbrough who had eliminated Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in previous rounds.

Lukaku tapped in Mason Mount's low cross after 15 minutes before Ziyech fired home 16 minutes later.

Middlesbrough were given raucous support inside the Riverside Stadium but never really looked capable of troubling the visitors who were always in control.

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Chelsea, the object of several buyout bids, are operating under a special licence from the British government after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Only a few hundred Chelsea fans were inside the stadium - a consequence of restrictions on them selling tickets - but they could at least celebrate their team reaching the semis for the fifth time in six seasons.

Since Abramovich announced that he was putting the European champions up for sale on March 2 after 19 trophy-laden years, it has been very much business as usual on the pitch.

They have won all six fixtures since, the latest win coming the day after a deadline for bids to buy the club.

Despite the distractions, manager Thomas Tuchel has remained focused on winning games, and the performance of his players on Saturday was clinical.

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"We were very focused and very serious. We showed the quality at decisive moments," the German said.

"The effort was huge and we never let them get a foot into the door after the two early goals. It was a deserved win."

"Nothing we can do will change the situation and we accept that it's not in our hands, but what is in our hands is setting an example and staying focused."

Chelsea had attracted criticism in midweek for asking for the match to be played without fans to ensure "sporting integrity" in light of them not being able to sell tickets.

They later retracted that request and the Riverside was rocking before kickoff. 
But when Mount was allowed to advance down the left and then delivered a slide rule cross to allow Lukaku to tap home, the odds always looked stacked against Boro.

When Ziyech's shot then flew past Middlesbrough keeper Joe Lumley the hosts had a mountain to climb.

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Chelsea could have added to their lead with Lukaku denied by a goalline clearance and Lumley doing well to keep out Timo Werner's late effort, while Boro rarely had a sniff of a chance.

It was Boro's first home defeat in 10 games in all competitions, and their focus will now return to trying to make the promotion play-offs.

For Chelsea, they are still chasing silverware on two fronts after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek.

"We really have that winning mentality within the group. Any competition, any game, we want to win, and we want to keep that going," Mount said. "It's been a tough couple of weeks but for us, as a team, we're just focused and ready to play."

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

Chelsea continued to make light of their off-pitch turmoil with another impressive display on it as they reached the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory at Middlesbrough on Saturday. First-half goals by Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech knocked the stuffing out of second-tier Middlesbrough who had eliminated Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in previous rounds. Lukaku tapped in Mason Mount's low cross after 15 minutes before Ziyech fired home 16 minutes later. Middlesbrough were given raucous support inside the Riverside Stadium but never really looked capable of troubling the visitors who were always in control. ALSO READ: ISL to have new winner as Kerala Blasters go up against Hyderabad FC in final Chelsea, the object of several buyout bids, are operating under a special licence from the British government after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Only a few hundred Chelsea fans were inside the stadium - a consequence of restrictions on them selling tickets - but they could at least celebrate their team reaching the semis for the fifth time in six seasons. Since Abramovich announced that he was putting the European champions up for sale on March 2 after 19 trophy-laden years, it has been very much business as usual on the pitch. They have won all six fixtures since, the latest win coming the day after a deadline for bids to buy the club. Despite the distractions, manager Thomas Tuchel has remained focused on winning games, and the performance of his players on Saturday was clinical. ALSO READ: End of Roman Abramovich era! Three bids submitted for Chelsea as deadline passes "We were very focused and very serious. We showed the quality at decisive moments," the German said. "The effort was huge and we never let them get a foot into the door after the two early goals. It was a deserved win." "Nothing we can do will change the situation and we accept that it's not in our hands, but what is in our hands is setting an example and staying focused." Chelsea had attracted criticism in midweek for asking for the match to be played without fans to ensure "sporting integrity" in light of them not being able to sell tickets. They later retracted that request and the Riverside was rocking before kickoff. But when Mount was allowed to advance down the left and then delivered a slide rule cross to allow Lukaku to tap home, the odds always looked stacked against Boro. When Ziyech's shot then flew past Middlesbrough keeper Joe Lumley the hosts had a mountain to climb. ALSO READ: CAS upholds FIFA Council's decision to suspend all Russian teams and clubs Chelsea could have added to their lead with Lukaku denied by a goalline clearance and Lumley doing well to keep out Timo Werner's late effort, while Boro rarely had a sniff of a chance. It was Boro's first home defeat in 10 games in all competitions, and their focus will now return to trying to make the promotion play-offs. For Chelsea, they are still chasing silverware on two fronts after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals in midweek. "We really have that winning mentality within the group. Any competition, any game, we want to win, and we want to keep that going," Mount said. "It's been a tough couple of weeks but for us, as a team, we're just focused and ready to play."

FA Cup: Chelsea continue to ignore off-field turmoil with 2-0 win over Middlesbrough to enter semi-finals

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday.

The Cubs'&nbsp;owners, the Ricketts family, and Griffin have formed an investment group which is set to make a formal offer for the London club on Friday.

Reuters has been told the bid does not involve Citadel, the hedge fund business, only Griffin.

The Ricketts family said they would be leading the investment group that will make the bid.

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"As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts Family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community," the Ricketts family investor group said in a statement reported by the BBC.

Chelsea were initially put up for sale by its owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the Russian oligarch by the British government.

The European champions are currently operating under a special licence and are now effectively controlled by the British government.

Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($183.16 million). He had funded Chelsea via 1.5 billion pounds in total loans through Fordstam Limited, the entity through which he owns the club.

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His investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

Chelsea are ranked by Forbes as the seventh most valuable club in world soccer at $3.2 billion.

The club are third in the league standings -- 11 points behind leaders Manchester City -- while they are set to play Lille in the Champions League last-16 second leg later on Wednesday.

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday.

The owners of U.S. baseball team the Chicago Cubs have teamed up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to work on a bid to buy English Premier League soccer club Chelsea, a spokesperson for Griffin confirmed to Reuters on Wednesday. The Cubs' owners, the Ricketts family, and Griffin have formed an investment group which is set to make a formal offer for the London club on Friday. Reuters has been told the bid does not involve Citadel, the hedge fund business, only Griffin. The Ricketts family said they would be leading the investment group that will make the bid. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion "As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts Family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community," the Ricketts family investor group said in a statement reported by the BBC. Chelsea were initially put up for sale by its owner Roman Abramovich following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine before sanctions were imposed on the Russian oligarch by the British government. The European champions are currently operating under a special licence and are now effectively controlled by the British government. Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($183.16 million). He had funded Chelsea via 1.5 billion pounds in total loans through Fordstam Limited, the entity through which he owns the club. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid win at Old Trafford to knock out Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer Manchester United His investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice. Chelsea are ranked by Forbes as the seventh most valuable club in world soccer at $3.2 billion. The club are third in the league standings -- 11 points behind leaders Manchester City -- while they are set to play Lille in the Champions League last-16 second leg later on Wednesday.

Chicago Cubs owners team up with Citadel founder Ken Griffin to bid for Chelsea Football Club

Chelsea are dealing with British government restrictions on their operations in a professional manner and will do whatever it takes to advance in their Champions League last-16 second-leg tie at Lille on Wednesday, coach Thomas Tuchel said.

Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the government while the Premier League has also disqualified him as a director.

Under the terms of a licence issued by the government, Chelsea's operations are limited in scope.

Tuchel said the European champions had to make adjustments in how many staff are travelling and staying in Lille and that such discussions had never taken place before, with an operations team taking care of all their needs.

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"We have to deal with it. There are new things to talk about, like how to arrive at games. Things that are normally taken care of," Tuchel told reporters on the eve of the return leg in France, with Chelsea leading 2-0 from the first game.

"We have a framework to go to Lille and play in Lille. There will be no excuses. It's already more difficult to arrange things in the best way possible for the FA Cup (quarter-final at Middlesbrough on Saturday)."

"As long as we have shirts, as long as we are alive, we will arrive, be competitive and fight hard for our success. We owe it to the people who normally support us ... Of course, we`re in the spotlight but this is our responsibility."

Tuchel added that he did not have a choice in being the voice of the club in a tumultuous two-week period and said he would continue to face questions about any new owner.

"A new owner needs to arrive, needs to be approved, and then be allowed to own the football club. Then we can discuss about it, if it`s necessary," Tuchel said.

"There is a process how you become an owner in this league, and of course ... everybody relies on the process and the values which are behind the decisions and allowance to run a club.

"I don't think too much about it (being the voice of the club). I try to be honest, give you an insight and give you information from a coach`s heart. This is what I try and what you can rely on."

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Chelsea fans have been urged by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson not to chant for Abramovich, terming it "completely inappropriate" under the circumstances, but Tuchel said he did not want to comment on the matter.

"I don't know if it`s the most important subject to be discussed in parliament. If it is, maybe we have to worry about the priority of discussions there," Tuchel said.

"There are far more urgent things to discuss and handle."

Chelsea are dealing with British government restrictions on their operations in a professional manner and will do whatever it takes to advance in their Champions League last-16 second-leg tie at Lille on Wednesday, coach Thomas Tuchel said.

Chelsea are dealing with British government restrictions on their operations in a professional manner and will do whatever it takes to advance in their Champions League last-16 second-leg tie at Lille on Wednesday, coach Thomas Tuchel said. Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the government while the Premier League has also disqualified him as a director. Under the terms of a licence issued by the government, Chelsea's operations are limited in scope. Tuchel said the European champions had to make adjustments in how many staff are travelling and staying in Lille and that such discussions had never taken place before, with an operations team taking care of all their needs. ALSO READ: Premier League: Title race heats up as Manchester City drop points against Newcastle United "We have to deal with it. There are new things to talk about, like how to arrive at games. Things that are normally taken care of," Tuchel told reporters on the eve of the return leg in France, with Chelsea leading 2-0 from the first game. "We have a framework to go to Lille and play in Lille. There will be no excuses. It's already more difficult to arrange things in the best way possible for the FA Cup (quarter-final at Middlesbrough on Saturday)." "As long as we have shirts, as long as we are alive, we will arrive, be competitive and fight hard for our success. We owe it to the people who normally support us ... Of course, we`re in the spotlight but this is our responsibility." Tuchel added that he did not have a choice in being the voice of the club in a tumultuous two-week period and said he would continue to face questions about any new owner. "A new owner needs to arrive, needs to be approved, and then be allowed to own the football club. Then we can discuss about it, if it`s necessary," Tuchel said. "There is a process how you become an owner in this league, and of course ... everybody relies on the process and the values which are behind the decisions and allowance to run a club. "I don't think too much about it (being the voice of the club). I try to be honest, give you an insight and give you information from a coach`s heart. This is what I try and what you can rely on." ALSO READ: Premier League: Chelsea strike late to beat Newcastle 1-0 amid off-field turmoil, Arsenal outclass Leicester Chelsea fans have been urged by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson not to chant for Abramovich, terming it "completely inappropriate" under the circumstances, but Tuchel said he did not want to comment on the matter. "I don't know if it`s the most important subject to be discussed in parliament. If it is, maybe we have to worry about the priority of discussions there," Tuchel said. "There are far more urgent things to discuss and handle."

Chelsea will continue to fight hard for success, says coach Thomas Tuchel amid Roman Abramovich crisis

The Premier League board has disqualified Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as a director at the English top-flight club, the league said in a statement on Saturday.

The move comes after the billionaire Russian had sanctions imposed on him by the British government after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

"Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League Board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a Director of Chelsea Football Club," the Premier League said.

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"The Board's decision does not impact on the club's ability to train and play its fixtures, as set out under the terms of a licence issued by the Government which expires on 31 May 2022."

Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence.

Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff but cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way.

Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($182.5 million) and his investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

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Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" designed not to occupy territory but to destroy its neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists.

The entry on the British sanctions list described Abramovich as "a prominent Russian businessman and pro-Kremlin oligarch" who had enjoyed "a close relationship for decades" with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Abramovich has denied having such ties.

The Premier League board has disqualified Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as a director at the English top-flight club, the league said in a statement on Saturday.

The Premier League board has disqualified Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as a director at the English top-flight club, the league said in a statement on Saturday. The move comes after the billionaire Russian had sanctions imposed on him by the British government after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. "Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League Board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a Director of Chelsea Football Club," the Premier League said. ALSO READ: European winter sports festival: Russian Olympic Committee appeals to overturn ban on its athletes "The Board's decision does not impact on the club's ability to train and play its fixtures, as set out under the terms of a licence issued by the Government which expires on 31 May 2022." Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence. Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff but cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way. Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($182.5 million) and his investment resulted in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice. ALSO READ: UK govt right to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" designed not to occupy territory but to destroy its neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists. The entry on the British sanctions list described Abramovich as "a prominent Russian businessman and pro-Kremlin oligarch" who had enjoyed "a close relationship for decades" with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Abramovich has denied having such ties.

Premier League board disqualifies Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich as director at club

British property developer Nick Candy remains interested in making a bid for Chelsea Football Club whose owner, Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, has been hit by an asset freeze by the British government, a spokesperson for Candy said on Friday.

"We are examining the details of yesterday's announcement and we are still interested in making a bid," the spokesperson said.

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"Clearly this is a time of great uncertainty for all Chelsea fans. In our view, no one is the owner of a football club – you are the custodian of it for the fans and the community."

British property developer Nick Candy remains interested in making a bid for Chelsea Football Club whose owner, Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, has been hit by an asset freeze by the British government, a spokesperson for Candy said on Friday.

British property developer Nick Candy remains interested in making a bid for Chelsea Football Club whose owner, Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, has been hit by an asset freeze by the British government, a spokesperson for Candy said on Friday. "We are examining the details of yesterday's announcement and we are still interested in making a bid," the spokesperson said. ALSO READ: Explained: What British government's sanctions on Roman Abramovich mean for Chelsea football club "Clearly this is a time of great uncertainty for all Chelsea fans. In our view, no one is the owner of a football club – you are the custodian of it for the fans and the community."

British property developer Nick Candy interested in a bid for Chelsea Football Club, says spokesperson

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence.

While Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff, they cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way.

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"It's not a situation all the employees at Chelsea are responsible for. One man is and that's (Russian president) Vladimir Putin," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.

"I don't know about Roman Abramovich's role in all this but you can say he is close. I think what the government did is right."

Abramovich has denied having close ties with Putin.

While the future of many Chelsea players remains in doubt, Klopp has his own problems with Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah yet to sign a new deal that will extend his stay at Anfield beyond 2023.

Salah is once again the league's top scorer with 19 goals so far, with another eight in the Champions League.

"Mo expects this club to be ambitious. We cannot do much more, it is Mo's decision," Klopp said.

"It's all fine from my point of view. Nothing happened further, no signing or rejection. We just have to wait, there's no rush."

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Klopp also praised new signing Luis Diaz's impact, with the Colombian winger now fully settled into the squad and starting games regularly.

"It has been surprisingly quick. When you sign a player, you never know how quick it will go," Klopp added. "You get what you see in training in the games. It has been brilliant so far."

Liverpool are six points behind leaders Manchester City but Klopp's side have a game in hand.

"It's hard work but the boys are ready. We will try everything, but we cannot call it a title race because we are still behind. We try to win football games, but let's see," Klopp said.

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

The British government was right to impose sanctions on Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich but the Premier League club's employees should not have to suffer for it, Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Abramovich, who had been under scrutiny following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, announced he was selling the London club last week but that sale is now on hold with Chelsea operating under a special government licence. While Chelsea can continue playing games and pay their players and staff, they cannot transfer players in or out as the government tries to prevent Abramovich from benefiting in any way. ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi after 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid "It's not a situation all the employees at Chelsea are responsible for. One man is and that's (Russian president) Vladimir Putin," Klopp told reporters ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to Brighton & Hove Albion. "I don't know about Roman Abramovich's role in all this but you can say he is close. I think what the government did is right." Abramovich has denied having close ties with Putin. While the future of many Chelsea players remains in doubt, Klopp has his own problems with Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah yet to sign a new deal that will extend his stay at Anfield beyond 2023. Salah is once again the league's top scorer with 19 goals so far, with another eight in the Champions League. "Mo expects this club to be ambitious. We cannot do much more, it is Mo's decision," Klopp said. "It's all fine from my point of view. Nothing happened further, no signing or rejection. We just have to wait, there's no rush." ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo intent on leaving Manchester United, has held talks with agent Jorge Mendes - Report Klopp also praised new signing Luis Diaz's impact, with the Colombian winger now fully settled into the squad and starting games regularly. "It has been surprisingly quick. When you sign a player, you never know how quick it will go," Klopp added. "You get what you see in training in the games. It has been brilliant so far." Liverpool are six points behind leaders Manchester City but Klopp's side have a game in hand. "It's hard work but the boys are ready. We will try everything, but we cannot call it a title race because we are still behind. We try to win football games, but let's see," Klopp said.

UK govt right to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday.

"We're in constant contact with the club and the Premier League over any issues that have been raised through the sanctions and the licence that the Treasury have issued them," the spokesman told reporters.

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"It's now up to the club to apply for any amended licence. I believe Chelsea have said that they will do that, and we'll obviously work with the club and... the league to consider any operationally necessary changes."

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday.

Britain will consider changes to Chelsea Football Club's licence, granted to allow the team to keep playing following sanctions on its owner Roman Abramovich, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Friday. "We're in constant contact with the club and the Premier League over any issues that have been raised through the sanctions and the licence that the Treasury have issued them," the spokesman told reporters. ALSO READ: UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi after 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid "It's now up to the club to apply for any amended licence. I believe Chelsea have said that they will do that, and we'll obviously work with the club and... the league to consider any operationally necessary changes."

Britain to work with Chelsea Football Club on changes to its licence, says PM's spokesman

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country.

On Thursday, the British government announced sanctions on seven Russians, including Abramovich. The assets of the seven Russian billionaires will be frozen by the government. However, the British government confirmed that it will allow Chelsea football club to continue playing their matches across competitions despite the sanctions on its owner.

The sanctions mean Abramovich's ability to see Chelsea has also been frozen by the government. The Russian cannot sell the club for now as the asset freeze and sanctions bar the process of a sale under the terms of the license that was granted to the club.

However, the British government has issued a special license to Chelsea which will allow the club to continue playing their matches without any disruption. The license also ensures that the club will pay their staff and players in time, and the ticket holders will be allowed to attend the club's matches.

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However, barring the season ticket holders, no other fans will be able to attend Chelsea matches.&nbsp;"I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended," said&nbsp;Nadine Dorries, Britain's minister for sport.

"Football clubs are cultural assets and the bedrock of our communities. We`re committed to protecting them," she added.

Reigning Club World Cup and European champions Chelsea are currently placed third on the Premier League points table with 53 points from 26 matches so far this season and are fighting to finish inside top four.

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country.

Britain's government on Thursday imposed sanctions on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, handing a huge blow to his plans of selling Chelsea football club. In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, Abramovich had put Chelsea up for sale after the British government started tightening the noose on Russian billionaires operating in the country. On Thursday, the British government announced sanctions on seven Russians, including Abramovich. The assets of the seven Russian billionaires will be frozen by the government. However, the British government confirmed that it will allow Chelsea football club to continue playing their matches across competitions despite the sanctions on its owner. The sanctions mean Abramovich's ability to see Chelsea has also been frozen by the government. The Russian cannot sell the club for now as the asset freeze and sanctions bar the process of a sale under the terms of the license that was granted to the club. However, the British government has issued a special license to Chelsea which will allow the club to continue playing their matches without any disruption. The license also ensures that the club will pay their staff and players in time, and the ticket holders will be allowed to attend the club's matches. Also Read: Deja vu for Lionel Messi-starrer PSG as they crumble again on big occasion with Real Madrid loss However, barring the season ticket holders, no other fans will be able to attend Chelsea matches. "I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended," said Nadine Dorries, Britain's minister for sport. "Football clubs are cultural assets and the bedrock of our communities. We`re committed to protecting them," she added. Reigning Club World Cup and European champions Chelsea are currently placed third on the Premier League points table with 53 points from 26 matches so far this season and are fighting to finish inside top four.

Chelsea football club's sale halted as UK government imposes sanctions on Roman Abramovich

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