Abramovich breaks cover after sanctioning as Chelsea owner leaves in private jet

Roman Abramovich has been pictured for the first time in over a month after he was sanctioned by the government.

The oligarch, who is in the process of selling Chelsea, was spotted in a VIP airport lounge in Tel Aviv before his private jet took off for Istanbul.

Abramovich was added to the United Kingdom's sanctioned individuals list last Thursday as a result of his links to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

He was last pictured on 12 February before he was spotted in Ben Gurion airport in Israel on Monday, with his jet soon departing for the Turkish capital.

Abramovich's assets in the UK are frozen but Chelsea have been granted a special sporting license to continue football-related activities under strict regulations.

The 55-year-old has owned the Blues since 2003 and there are a number of consortiums interested in purchasing the club, with The Raine Group overseeing the sale.

The government will have the final say on how funds raised from the sale can be used, while Abramovich is also facing the prospect of sanctions from the European Union in the wake of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, according to Reuters.

Boris Johnson's official spokesperson drew attention to Abramovich's links with the Russian president as they pleaded with Chelsea fans to stop chanting his name on Monday.

"We recognise the strength of feeling around people's clubs but that does not excuse behaviour which is completely inappropriate at this time," the spokesperson said.

"I think people can show passion and support for their club without resorting to that sort of stuff."

Abramovich's name rung around Stamford Bridge during Sunday's Premier League clash against Newcastle, which Chelsea won 1-0 thanks to Kai Havertz's late goal.

Meanwhile, the Blues must apply for a license in order for the sale of the club to go through.

The prime minister's spokesperson added: "We are open to the sale of the club, we would consider an application for a licence to allow that to happen in the right circumstances.

"But it is for Chelsea to determine the exact process. My understanding is potential buyers would approach the club, who would then need to apply for a further amended licence to facilitate the sale.

"As far as I'm aware that hasn't happened at this point."

Abramovich's sanctioning has plunged Chelsea into turmoil with the club prevented from selling tickets or merchandise, raising serious doubts over their financial stability.

It has also led to questions over the futures of manager Thomas Tuchel and numerous players - especially those who are out of contract this summer - as the Blues are prohibited from extending contracts.