Roman Abramovich is reportedly considering a sale of Chelsea in a lucrative deal which could impact Newcastle United and their Premier League rivals.
The Blues owner has come under increasing pressure to sell in recent weeks as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and the 55-year-old released a statement on Saturday claiming he was “giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC". Now, Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss claims he has been offered the a deal to buy the club, but would only be interested in a move as part of a consortium.
The sale of Chelsea would reportedly exceed the £2bn mark, with Abramovich said to be owed in the region of £1.5bn by the club. Wyss — who has a reported worth of £4.3bn and founded American medical device business Synthes USA — told Swiss newspaper Blick that Abramovich is eager to “get rid” of Chelsea in the near future.
“Abramovich is trying to sell all his villas in England, he also wants to get rid of Chelsea quickly,” he said. “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 has no money. As of today, we don’t know the exact selling price.” He added: “I can well imagine starting at Chelsea with partners.
“But I have to examine the general conditions first. But what I can already say: I’m definitely not doing something like this alone. If I buy Chelsea, then with a consortium consisting of six to seven investors.”
This comes after MP Chris Bryant suggested to parliament last week that Abramovich should “no longer be allowed to own a football club in this country” following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Saturday’s statement of relinquishment of duties was met with concern by foundation trustees, who asked for more clarity.
The Daily Mail reports that six trustees held a meeting on Sunday and are seeking legal conversations with the Charity Commission — who contacted Chelsea asking for more information — to see if the transfer can be enacted.
We want to hear your thoughts, so LOG IN and leave your comment below
