Chelsea’s Russian owner plans to sell the club

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich says he is planning to sell the club.

In a statement on the English Premier League club's website, businessman Abramovich says it was an incredibly difficult decision to make, which pains him.

Abramovich gave "stewardship and care" of Chelsea to its foundation trustees following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Earlier yesterday, Billionaire Hansjorg Wyss had told a Swiss newspaper he had been offered the chance to buy the west London club.

Wyss said Abramovich wanted to get rid of Chelsea quickly after the threat of sanctions was raised in British Parliament.

Abramovich is alleged to have strong ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he has denied.

In his statement, Abramovich adds he has always taken decisions with the club's best interest at heart.

He says in the current situation, he has therefore taken the decision to sell the club, as he believes this is in the best interest of the club, the fans, the employees, as well as the club's sponsors and partners.

Abramovich adds the sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process and he will not be asking for any loans to be repaid.

He bought Chelsea in 2003 and he says it has never been about business nor money, but about pure passion for the game and club.

[Source: BBC Sports]