Chelsea have reportedly held talks with three groups over a stunning takeover, worth £2.5bn.
Roman Abramovich has been tipped to sell up this summer after being denied a visa in May last year.
The Russian is not believed to have attended any matches in that time, although chairman Bruce Buck insists he remains committed to the club.
The Mail on Sunday reports Chelsea have held talks with three interested parties, including US and Asian-based groups.
Chelsea season ticket-holder and Britain's richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe is believed to retain an interest.
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Ratcliffe's valuation is said to be considerably less than the valuation set by Abramovich.
The Chelsea owner has also given up his director's box at Stamford Bridge, club accounts recently revealed.
He opted against renewing his purchases for the start of the season, having spent around £1m on corporate hospitality boxes every year since 2011.
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The UK's richest man - whose wealth dwarfs industrialist-turned-media mogul Sir Len Blavatnik and Sir Philip Green - took control of team Sky last month in a deal worth £34m-a-year.
Radcliffe made his fortune with petrochemicals company Ineos but has always wanted to acquire a Premier League football club.
The 66-year-old is worth in excess of £21billion and he already owns Swiss football club Lausanne-Sport.
He has also been linked with a takeover bid of French side Nice although the offer, believed to be worth £77m, was rebuffed by the club.
Chelsea return to Premier League action as they take on Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The Blues remain in the mix for the top four although Saturday's results saw them drop down to fourth with Manchester United closing the gap.
