Report: Abramovich not considering Chelsea sale to Britain's richest man

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is not eyeing a speculated sale of the club to Britain's richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, according to a report from ESPN FC's Liam Twomey.

Abramovich purchased the club in 2003, but hasn't attended a match since his tier-1 investor visa was rebuffed by the UK government last year amid uneasy relations with his native Russia.

Ratcliffe sparked talk of a potential sale in recent discussions with BBC Sport when he referenced "conversations" over a potential takeover of the west London club. The founder of chemical company Ineos, Ratcliffe linked his interest in buying Chelsea with his takeover and rebranding of famed cycling outfit Team Sky, which officially became Team Ineos on Wednesday.

However, Abramovich has never spoken to Ratcliffe or any other interested party about selling Chelsea, according to ESPN, which added that the British billionaire's approach was "politely declined" when he inquired about the club in May 2018.

Abramovich acquired Chelsea from Ken Bates for a £140-million fee and has since reportedly invested approximately £1.13 billion of his own money into the club.

Since that 2003 takeover, Chelsea have lifted 15 major honors and are eyeing a 16th in the Europa League ahead of a two-legged semifinal clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.