Chelsea: ‘We will speak to the government and ask for a special permit change’

Chelsea’s first reaction to the penalties imposed on its owner Roman Abramovich is a statement saying it will start talks with the British government to ease its restrictions.

With the latest data, the sanctions have “blocked” transfer movements as from now on they have no right to buy or sell players or extend their players’ existing contracts.

At the same time, it will not be possible to sell tickets for its home games, nor will it be possible to sell its products on the pitch. Only on-site canteens and restaurants are open.

According to the announcement, the European and world champion wants to try to “relax” these sanctions, always after consulting the government.

Chelsea’s announcement

Chelsea have been informed that owner Roman Abramovich has been penalized by the British government.

Given its 100 per cent ownership of Chelsea and its subsidiaries, Chelsea would normally face the same sanctions as Mr Abramovich. However, the UK government has given general permission to allow Chelsea to maintain certain activities.

We will cede the men’s and women’s teams to Norwich and West Ham respectively tonight and intend to start talks with the UK Government on the scope of the licence. This includes an application to change the license to allow the club to operate as normally as possible. We will also be taking advice from the UK Government on the impact these measures are having on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities.

The club will provide further information if this is deemed necessary”.