Chelsea’s takeover by an American consortium led by businessman Todd Boehly may not go ahead. According to the BBC the British government is not reassured that sufficient concrete agreements can be made with the current owner of the top club from the Premier League, Roman Abramovich.

Government sources say there are “serious concerns” about the plans going ahead. Abramovich is reportedly refusing to agree “to a sales structure that gives ministers confidence that the proceeds will go to charity”. The Russian businessman had promised this at an earlier stage.

The consortium wants to pay 2.5 billion pounds (almost 3 billion euros) to take over Chelsea from Abramovich. In addition, the Americans plan to invest 1.75 billion pounds, converted almost 2 billion euros, in the club. The intention is that the acquisition amount will go to charities.

Chelsea was put up for sale by Abramovich in March after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He is on a British government sanctions list because he is believed to have close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Chelsea therefore has to deal with all kinds of restrictions.

Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 for around £60 million. Thanks to his investments, the Londoners have grown into one of the largest clubs in the world. Last season Chelsea won the Champions League.

Chelsea has been owned by Roman Abramovich since 2003.

In the footsteps of father Robin: