Who is looking to buy Chelsea from Roman Abramovich and what happens next?

Roman Abramovich’s decision to sell Chelsea will carry extended impact for the Blues.

Here, we look at the state of play at Stamford Bridge.

Statement from Roman Abramovich.

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 2, 2022

Russian-Israeli billionaire Abramovich has owned Chelsea since 2003 but announced on Wednesday, March 2nd that he would be selling the Premier League club. Russia’s continued invasion of Ukraine has forced Abramovich’s hand, amid major geopolitical upheaval.

Chelsea’s staff, coaches and players were caught slightly by surprise, especially given the timing. The Blues were at Kenilworth Road, going through late preparations for the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Luton, that Chelsea won 3-2.

American merchant bank The Raine Group has been engaged to handle the sale, and prospective bidders are busy compiling their offers.

Chelsea are understood to have already received several serious offers, with the Blues hierarchy expecting more bids to come. Chelsea’s status as Champions League holders and one of the world’s most prominent clubs means no shortage of suitors are interested.

Abramovich is thought to be confident of achieving in the region of £3 billion (€3.6 billion), while several interested parties are clearly in the stage of exploring lower bids. Chelsea’s current owner is determined the sale will follow standard procedure and timescale.

Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss and American magnate Todd Boehly were the first to make their intentions public on a bid for the Blues, with a consortium offer being composed. Turkish businessman Muhsin Bayrak has also claimed a bid. A string of other names have also been linked, though no one else has made their candidacy public. Jim Ratcliffe’s spokesperson denied a bid