Ukraine President Vlodymyr Zelensky reportedly personally asked Joe Biden to delay sanctions to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, viewing the oligarch as a potentially crucial go-between in peace talks with Russia.
Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government two weeks ago, shortly after putting the club up for sale. The decision to freeze his assets meant that Chelsea could not carry out any business that sees money move into the club, including via ticket sales. A special licence was granted to continue paying staff and playing matches, however.
The hunt for a new owner has continued, although no money from the sale will be allowed to go to Abramovich, who the government say has had a relationship with Vladimir Putin for decades, something he has always denied.
