Chelsea close in on shirt deal

Chelsea hope to announce a new shirt sponsorship deal before the end of the season – which could see them pressurise Manchester United for the official position of richest club in the world.

The current agreement with airline Emirates runs out in two months and talks have begun with a number of contenders who want their company name to adorn the Blues’ shirts from next season, the Stamford Bridge club’s centenary campaign.

Although club officials could leave the strip devoid of sponsor to mark the 100th year, the likelihood is that a long-term relationship with a major brand will be struck.

“Discussions are ongoing with several global, blue-chip companies who are market leaders in their field,” said a Chelsea spokesman. “We are hopeful those discussions will come to fruition in the near future.”

Despite announcing record losses recently, Chelsea surged to fourth in this year’s Deloitte Football Money League, effectively the sport’s rich list.

Progress beyond that of United’s in this season’s Champions League will close the revenue gap further following swiftly on the back of a new lucrative kit deal with adidas to run for eight seasons from 2006-07.

That represented a rise of around 600% on the previous package and another similarly lucrative sponsorship agreement would increase their financial progress.

However, the club have just reported a pre-tax loss of £88m for last year – the biggest in English football history – after spending £175m on new players and doubling the wage bill to £115m last season.

With clubs’ financial wealth based on income, Chelsea’s finances having been underpinned by the multi-million pound fortune of owner Roman Abramovich.

United’s 13-year deal with kit manufacturers Nike is worth £300m while Vodafone’s latest sponsorship brings in a further £36m over four years.

The Old Trafford giants have remained at the head of the rich list for eight years in a row, with an annual income of £172m for the 2003-04 season.

But Chelsea climbed six places from 10th in just 12 months, as their income increased by an astonishing 62% to £143.7m.

The report concluded: “Having devoured two thirds of Manchester United’s revenue lead in one season, Chelsea will not think that future overall leadership is beyond them.”