Roman Abramovich Gets Sanctioned By Uk Government As Sales Of Chelsea Is Put On Hold

Roman Abramovich’s hopes of selling European champions Chelsea were put on hold on Thursday after the UK government hit the Russian billionaire with an assets freeze.

The finance ministry disclosed that the restrictions “apply to any entities that are owned or controlled by Roman Abramovich”, adding: “This means Chelsea Football Club is now also subject to an asset freeze under UK financial sanctions.

Chelsea have been granted a special licence to continue operating as a footballing entity which includes paying wages and bills, however tickets will no longer be on sale for matches with only season ticket holders able to attend matches for the foreseeable future.

The club will also be unable to sell merchandise, complete player transfers or negotiate contracts – something that could be troublesome given the upcoming expiry of Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen’s deals at Stamford Bridge.