The UK government has confirmed Chelsea are no longer under sanctions following the completion of Todd Boehly's takeover of the club.
A consortium fronted by the LA Dodgers co-owner and investment firm Clearlake Capital saw it's purchase of Chelsea go through on Monday, with Boehly assuming control from former oligarch owner Roman Abramovich.
The Blues had been operating with government-imposed sanctions since March following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The measures meant the club was effectively under a transfer embargo, unable to negotiate new contracts, unable to sell tickets and there were restrictions on travel costs.
However, the UK government has confirmed that Boehly's takeover means those sanctions have been lifted as planned.
"Today's (Monday's) change of ownership marks a new chapter for Chelsea Football Club in the best interests of its fans, the club and the wider football community," a statement read.
"The club is now no longer subject to the sanctions imposed on Roman Abramovich, an individual who has enabled (Vladimir) Putin's brutal and barbaric invasion of Ukraine.
"Since sanctions were imposed on Abramovich on 10 March, we have worked tirelessly to ensure the club can continue to play football, while maintaining the integrity of our sanctions regime."
The government went on to confirm that they had ensured Abramovich would not benefit from the proceeds of the sale.
"Chelsea's long-term future is now secured and binding commitments have been received which ensure sanctioned individuals cannot financially benefit from the sale," it continued. "The Government retains control to ensure that this is the case.
"We have begun the process of ensuring proceeds are used for humanitarian purposes in Ukraine that result from Russian aggression. Further details will be set out in due."
Head coach Thomas Tuchel can now set about strengthening his Chelsea squad, having been handed around £200m to make changes. As previously revealed by 90min, Sevilla defender Jules Kounde is likely to be the first face through the door.
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Source : 90min