The Friday evening deadline for any Chelsea bids is fast approaching, with a number of parties interested in taking over the club from Roman Abramovich.
Chelsea are in an unprecedented situation following the decision by the UK government to add Abramovich to its sanction list last week. The club cannot currently sell tickets to games or sell merchandise and they also have a limit on how much they can spend on a match day.
When a club with the stature of Chelsea becomes available on the market, there is likely to be a load of interested parties - and that is certainly the case this time. Here is the current state of play as we approach Friday evening's deadline for offers.
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Todd Boehly, Hansjorg Wyss and Jonathan Goldstein's consortium
Todd Boehly, who part owns the LA Dodgers, has teamed up with Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss, who are both being backed by Jonathan Goldstein. Daniel Finkelstein has recently joined the trio in their pursuit of ownership.
It is understood that Raine Group, the organisation in charge of selling Chelsea, are keen to get someone, or a consortium, who have previous experience in running a sports club. This is, of course, good news for Boehly, who part owns the Dodgers and the Los Angeles Sparks.
Nick Candy
Nick Candy is a lifelong Chelsea supporter and has recently confirmed his interest in purchasing his beloved club. The British property developer said this to Sky Sports at the weekend: "I've supported Chelsea since I was the age of four. My dad was asked to play for Chelsea. I love Chelsea. I don't mind where it ends up, even if it's not with me, as long as it's in safe hands."
However, as it stands, it is understood that Candy is not a front-runner, as he continues to look for a partner to help fund a bid. This could change, though, before Friday night's deadline.
Sir Martin Broughton
Sir Martin Broughton, who is also a long-term supporter of the west London club, is also interested in the sale of Chelsea FC. Lord Sebastian Coe confirmed he is helping Broughton with his bid and backed the former Liverpool chairman to take over from Abramovich.
Coe said: "I am certain that Sir Martin is the right man to lead Chelsea Football Club into its next chapter. He has an exceptional track record in British business, as well as unrivalled experience in shepherding Liverpool out of a very difficult situation.
"He has the vision, acumen and financial backing to ensure our club's future success, keeping Chelsea Football Club at the top of European football and challenging for trophies. But most importantly, like me, he is a lifelong Chelsea supporter and Shed End season-ticket holder.
"I know that this bid is for the millions of Chelsea fans around the world. We love our club and will always put the fans first."
The Ricketts family
The Ricketts family, who own the Chicago Cubs, are backed by Ken Griffin - a hedge fund billionaire. According to Forbes, Griffin's net worth is a whopping $28.1billion (£21.3million). As mentioned above, the Ricketts family's experience in running a sports team could benefit them when the options are being considered by Raine Group.
Robert "Woody" Johnson
Robert "Woody" Johnson, the owner of the New York Jets, reportedly launched a £2bn bid for Chelsea earlier in the week. The American businessman is said to have an extensive knowledge of London and football in the capital after living there when he served as the United States' ambassador. However, Johnson has refused to comment on the speculation that would make him the fourth NFL franchise owner to try their hand in the Premier League.
Aethel Partners
London investment firm Aethel Partners have made a £2billion offer to buy Chelsea, as reported on Thursday afternoon. The company would put £50m forward to help the financial strain at the club right now.
As well as this, they are said to be willing to offer full backing to manager Thomas Tuchel. They also have plans to redevelop Stamford Bridge on its current site.
