Roman Abramovich: Prospective buyers monitoring Chelsea situation

Prospective buyers are on high alert over the possibility of Roman Abramovich selling Chelsea.

It comes amid governments across the world considering sanctions - or further sanctions - in response to Russia's recent invasion of Ukraine.

Earlier this week, the UK government announced that several Russian banks and businesses would have their assets frozen, and there were also prohibitive measures targeting several of Vladimir Putin's 'inner circle'.

Abramovich also had close ties with Putin in the past and his omission from the sanctions has been widely criticised.

Citing a leaked Home Office document which stated that the Blues owner was involved in 'corrupt activity and practices', Labour MP Chris Bryant said in parliament: "Surely Mr Abramovich should no longer be able to own a football club in this country?

"Surely we should be looking at seizing some of his assets including his £152m home?"

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss hinted that imposing sanctions on Abramovich or even Russian-British Conservative party donors – of which there are numerous – is not off the table at this stage.

According to Bloomberg, investors are monitoring the situation closely. Should Abramovich opt to sell, there would be plenty of interest in Chelsea as it is one of the most high-profile brands in global sport.

Their report emphasises American investors' eagerness, though they are unlikely to be the only ones prowling.

Bloomberg recently valued Chelsea at €1.9bn, and if a sale does occur, it could be the most lucrative change of ownership in English football history.