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Roman Abramovich has reportedly rejected a takeover bid for Chelsea from the Middle East.

Abramovich, 52, bought Chelsea back in 2003 and has helped the club win five Premier League titles.

The Russian was a regular fixture in the Stamford Bridge directors' box at the start of his tenure but has not been seen around the club recently as his visa row rumbles on.

The Telegraph reports Abramovich received a big money offer to buy Chelsea from a Middle East consortium at the end of last season.

It is believed Abramovich has no intention to sell the club - and will demand at least £3billion before he even holds discussions.

(Image: ANTHONY ANEX/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

Abramovich's absence from Stamford Bridge has led to speculation he is willing to sell up.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Britain's richest man, has a season ticket with Chelsea and was linked with a bid last year.

Last month, he admitted the stadium issues at Stamford Bridge would take too long to resolve, confirming he had held talks but decided against a takeover bid.

(Image: X90004)

"There was some early exchange but we were a significant way apart on valuations," he said.

"The issue with Chelsea is its stadium. We are all getting older and it is a decade of your life to resolve that."

Chelsea are in Champions League action against Ajax on Wednesday night.