MOSCOW, Mar 15 British Prime Minister Boris Johnson through his official representative urged fans of the Chelsea football club to stop chanting the name of the owner of the team, Russian businessman Roman Abramovich, during matches. On March 10, the United Kingdom authorities imposed sanctions against seven Russian businessmen, including Abramovich. Those sanctioned will be banned from entering the UK, and their assets in the country will be frozen. The English Premier League has removed Abramovich from the management of Chelsea, which he has owned since 2003. Chelsea fans cheered for Abramovich during Sunday's 1-0 Premier League game against Newcastle United by chanting his name. I think people can show passion and support for their club without having to do that sort of thing,» Johnson's spokesman, quoted by the Mirror, said. Abramovich handed over the management of Chelsea to a charitable trust. On Monday, it was reported that Saudi Arabia-based Saudi Media Group had made an offer to buy the London club for $3.53 billion (£2.7 billion). Chelsea's current license to operate as a result of sanctions imposed on Abramovich prohibits the sale of the team. However, the UK government will consider an alternative license to allow the sale. «We are open to the sale of the club, we will consider the application for a license to make it happen under the right circumstances,» Johnson's spokesman said.
