‘What next for Chelsea?’ The question on the lips of football fans all over the world.

Sadly, the dawning of a new weekend brings no fresh hope for the Premier League club as concerning reports continue to emerge.

News broke overnight that Barclays had temporarily frozen Chelsea’s bank accounts leading to further claims that they are unable to even buy petrol for their team bus.

However, there is a dim shard of light at the end of the tunnel with further reports of the British government supposedly ‘green-lighting’ the sale of the club.

This will allow potential buyers to approach the government with the hope of getting a deal done within the next four to six weeks.

And such a deal can’t come soon enough with The Telegraph last night reporting that the Chelsea playing staff are already plotting their escape routes from the perceived sinking ship.

Chelsea players contact lawyers

The Telegraph claims that they have had confirmation of contact between lawyers and ‘concerned agents’ over clarity regarding the employment rights of their players, or to use their other term, ‘tearing up their contracts.’

Per the alarming report, one particular legal source outlined the criteria that will be required for the Chelsea players to have what is termed, ‘clear just cause’.

It reads:

“Players might have to go unpaid for two months to have ‘clear just cause’ – with a representative then giving a 15 day notice period to terminate their contract.

“However, given the aggravating circumstances of Abramovich being sanctioned, a court might find in favour of a player if he or she were to walk away at an earlier stage.

“There has been a sense of unity amongst Thomas Tuchel and his playing squad in recent weeks, but representatives have told lawyers they need to be aware of options if the club descends into financial paralysis.”

That does not make for happy reading, does it?

© Provided by Give Me Sport PORTO, PORTUGAL – MAY 29: Kai Havertz and Timo Werner of Chelsea celebrate with the Champions League Trophy following their team’s victory in the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester City and Chelsea FC at Estadio do Dragao on May 29, 2021 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Manu Fernandez – Pool/Getty Images)

While the financial situation at the club remains shrouded in inky shadow, the report claims that genuine financial difficulties are very possible should takeover attempts stall.

Government’s willingness to move sale forward

So far, however, the government has shown a willingness to ensure that the club stays afloat while a new buyer is found and sources close to the matter believe they would be willing to fast-track any sale should the new owner be deemed fit and proper.

Chelsea are also hoping the government will review the terms of the current licence allowing them to continue operating as it is believed that those terms are not sufficient enough for the club to complete the season.

There is still much water to pass under this bridge before we reach a conclusion – watch this space.

Source: Givemesport.com