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The Government are set to usher through Chelsea's sale to any of the four shortlisted bidders left in the race to replace Roman Abramovich, with a preferred party to be presented to Downing Street in the week of April 18

The Government is prepared to usher through Chelsea's sale to any of the four shortlisted bidders, the PA news agency understands.

The remaining contenders to buy Chelsea must submit final offers for the Stamford Bridge club on April 14.

New York merchant bank the Raine Group will then hope to present a preferred bidder to Downing Street in the week of April 18.

The Government must approve the eventual buyer, with the issuing of a new Treasury licence for the sale the final hurdle for Chelsea's would-be new owners.

And sources close to the Government have revealed Downing Street's satisfaction in principle with all remaining parties in the battle to buy the Blues from Roman Abramovich.