Roman Abramovich's sale of Chelsea could be announced as early as Monday.
It's believed an American-Swiss consortium is confident of agreeing a deal with the Russian oligarch, who is keen on a completing quick transaction, over the weekend.
The consortium is said to be fronted by Hansjorg Wyss, a Swiss billionaire who recently claimed he'd been offered the chance to buy Chelsea by Abramovich.
The consortium's other figurehead is thought to be Todd Boehly, an American businessman who previously attempted to buy the Blues for $3billion - around £2.25bn - in 2019.
Negotiations between Abramovich and the consortium are reportedly still taking place. The Russian is believed to want £4bn but will listen to offers over £3bn.
Rumours suggest Abramovich has already rejected an offer of £2.5bn. He bought Chelsea for just £140million in the summer of 2003.
As reported by Swiss outlet Blick, Wyss plans to travel from Boston to California on Thursday afternoon to continue the negotiations.
"Abramovich is trying to sell all of his villas in England, he also wants to get rid of Chelsea quickly," said Wyss - who is worth £4.3bn - on Tuesday.
"I and three other people received an offer on Tuesday to buy Chelsea from Abramovich. I have to wait four to five days now. Abramovich is currently asking far too much.
"You know, Chelsea owe him £2billion. But Chelsea have no money. Anyone who buys Chelsea must compensate Abramovich.
"As of today, we don't know the exact selling price. I can well imagine starting at Chelsea with partners. But I have to examine the general conditions first."
Abramovich confirmed he was selling Chelsea on Wednesday evening.
"I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC," read a statement from the Russian.
"As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart.
"In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the club, the fans, the employees, as well as the club’s sponsors and partners.
"The sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process.
"I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and club.
"Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated.
"The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine.
"This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
"Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the club in this manner.
"However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the club.
"I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person.
"It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements.
"Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart. Thank you, Roman."
