Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich confirms he is putting Premier League club Chelsea up for sale amid the invasion of Ukraine

Roman Abramovich has confirmed his decision to sell Chelsea amid Russia's continued invasion of Ukraine.

The Russian-Israeli billionaire, who has owned the Blues since 2003 and helped steer the Stamford Bridge club to 19 major trophies, has promised to donate money from the sale to help victims of the war.

But the 55-year-old's glittering reign in west London is now effectively over, with a consortium of billionaires already making their interest in a deal public.

Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss and US investor Todd Boehly are understood to be two of the parties joining forces and now preparing a bid for the Blues.

«As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the club's best interest at heart,» read Abramovich's statement on Wednesday.

«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 86-year-old Wyss has already revealed he would bid for Chelsea as part of a consortium.

Abramovich could yet come under UK government sanctions given his close links to the Russian state, amid suggestions he's been attempting to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

Chelsea won two Champions League titles, as well as the Club World Cup title earlier this year, under his ownership.

Abramovich has also pledged to donate any net proceeds from the club's sale to help victims of the war in Ukraine.

«The sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process,» continued Abramovich's statement.

«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