Chelsea among assets frozen as UK government sanctions owner Roman Abramovich

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is one of seven Russian oligarchs to have been hit with fresh sanctions by the UK government as part of their response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Premier League club is among the assets of Abramovich to have been frozen and the sanctions mean he will not be permitted to continue with his proposed sale of Chelsea for the time being.

The Blues have also been prohibited from selling any more match tickets, although season-ticket holders can attend games, and the club shop has been closed.

A special licence has been put in place by the UK government to ensure that Chelsea's players and staff are still paid, although there are restrictions on how much the club can spend on hosting matches at Stamford Bridge and travelling to away fixtures.

Thomas Tuchel's side head to Norwich for a Premier League fixture on Thursday evening before hosting Newcastle in the league on Sunday. The European champions are scheduled to travel to Lille for the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

The sanctions, which also apply to Chelsea Women, who face West Ham in the WSL on Thursday, will not affect broadcasters' coverage of Chelsea matches.

The club are not currently able to negotiate new deals for players out of contract at the end of the season although the government is reportedly considering a licence that would allow Chelsea to be sold to a new owner as long as Abramovich does not profit from the sale.

Culture secretary Nadine Dorries said in a statement: "The government has announced further sanctions against individuals linked to the Russian government. This list includes Roman Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea Football Club.

"I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended."

Abramovich bought the west London club in July 2003. Chelsea's trophies under his ownership include five Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, two Europa Leagues and, most recently, last month's Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

Sign up to emails from Racing Post Sport and get all the latest news and tips

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport