Chelsea will push on with ambitious summer transfer plans despite the crisis that threatens to engulf owner Roman Abramovich, with the club making Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski their No 1 target.

Abramovich’s visa application has been delayed, with the Government set to ask the Russian oligarch how he acquired his wealth if it is to be renewed.

There is also huge uncertainty over the future of Antonio Conte, with both the manager and the club hopeful of a parting of the ways but Chelsea unprepared to pay the kind of compensation – at least £10 million – that it would cost to get rid of the Italian and his nine staff.

Despite that upheaval, Chelsea are still trying to advance with a deal for Lewandowski, who they believe is ready for a move away from the German club and could cost in excess of £100 million.

If Chelsea were successful in their pursuit of Lewandowski his fee would likely be offset by the sale of club-record signing Alvaro Morata, with the Spaniard struggling after he moved to Stamford Bridge for £68 million last summer.