The UK Government is prepared to take legal action against Roman Abramovich in an effort to resolve the dispute over £2.5 billion generated from the sale of Chelsea.
Softfootball reports that authorities want the proceeds from the 2022 transaction to be used for humanitarian purposes, particularly to support people affected by the war in Ukraine.
Abramovich was forced to sell Chelsea after being sanctioned by the British Government following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The money from the sale has remained frozen while discussions continue over how it should be distributed.
Government officials have now indicated that they could turn to the courts if an agreement with Abramovich cannot be reached.
The development adds another chapter to the complicated aftermath of the Russian billionaire’s ownership of Chelsea.
The club was eventually purchased by a consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, bringing an end to Abramovich’s long tenure at Stamford Bridge.
However, questions over the sale proceeds have remained unresolved.
The government is expected to continue seeking a solution while keeping legal proceedings as a possible option if negotiations fail.
