Chelsea 'quash Roman Abramovich sale speculation'

Chelsea have reportedly moved to reject claims that owner Roman Abramovich is looking to sell the club for around £2bn.

The Sunday Times reported that US bank Raine Group had been called in to value the West London outfit as Abramovich is ready to cash in.

However, the London Evening Standard claims that Chelsea have made clear the Russian billionaire is not planning on stepping aside, and the bank is instead being used to secure further funding.

Abramovich pulled the plug on the Blues' planned redevelopment of Stamford Bridge in May due to an "unfavourable investment climate".

The report also indicates that the 51-year-old will back Maurizio Sarri - the 14th boss of his tenure - during the winter transfer window to strengthen Chelsea's playing squad.