Following the government's decision to freeze all of Roman Abramovich's UK assets, Manchester United could look to benefit from the situation.
Chelsea Football Club are now in a very difficult situation. The club can still be sold, but only as long as it does not benefit Abramovich or any other sanctioned individual and a new licence would have to be issued by the government.
A statement from the UK government reads: "While the current licence does not permit the sale of the club at this time, the Government is open to a sale of the club and would consider an application for a new licence to allow for a sale.
"Proceeds from any sale could not go to the sanctioned individual while he is subject to sanctions."
While this situation is ongoing, Chelsea cannot continue their efforts to renew the contracts of their players.
As it stands, the Blues have three defenders - Antonio Rudiger, Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen - all out of contract at the end of the season.
The feeling around Stamford Bridge is that Rudiger was looking likely to leave the club regardless of this latest news, but the sanction means his departure is all but guaranteed.
The 29-year-old defender, who has been imperious since Thomas Tuchel replaced Frank Lampard over 12 months ago, has been linked with a move to Manchester United, as well as Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
According to reports in January, United were in pole position to sign the Germany international and would offer him the £220,000-a-week that he wants.
Tuchel, when speaking to the media in January, admitted nothing had changed in regards to Rudiger's contract situation at Chelsea.
The German coach said: "I don't know if taking him for a lot of coffee will help, maybe it pushes him out!
"I don't feel he needs a lot of coffees with me. He is a guy that needs to trust you, to feel the connection, feel the trust. He wants to feel it by minutes and by actions.
"I don't feel Toni needs a lot of words, pampering and coffee talks or invitations to dinner or whatever.
"He is a top professional, this is what he proves. He is important, nothing has changed. We are in talks. It is in good hands because I trust the club 100 per cent and I trust the player so it is a no problem situation for me.
"Obviously also for Toni he can still deliver, he did a fantastic match now in a back four. He's super reliable. Nothing has changed. The points of view have not changed. Once something changes, you will be the first to know."
