Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has confirmed his intention to sell the club in a statement to fans this evening.
The Londoners, who were beaten by Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, have been under increasing pressure due to the ownership of Abramovich and his links to Russia president Vladimir Putin.
Abramovich recently handed the day-to-day running of the club to Chelsea's charitable foundation, but after speculation that he was ready to entertain offers to sell, he has since confirmed that stance in a statement released to supporters on Wednesday evening.
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It read: "I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC. 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"
Chelsea emerged as major rivals to Liverpool in the era following Abramovich's takeover in 2003, competing with the Reds for major trophies and transfers ever since.
Meanwhile, Chelsea legend Frank Lampard took over the reigns at Everton recently after the sacking of Rafa Benitez, who also had a brief spell as the Londoner's manager.
