Chelsea’s new owners ‘raise £800m in debt in order to reshape the club’s finances’

Chelsea’s owners have reportedly raised around £800m in debt to help finance changes to the club and playing squad under the new regime. 

Todd Boehly led a consortium that bought the club from Roman Abramovich in May, and the Blues have already been making waves in the transfer market.

Raheem Sterling was the first signing of the new era, the England international joining from Manchester City in a deal worth £50m, while defender Kalidou Koulibaly has also joined from Serie A side Napoli. 

However, there is also a desire to make changes off the pitch, with the redevelopment of Stamford Bridge among plans held by Boehly and the board.

According to the Financial Times, the American financier and Clearlake Capital have now raised £800m, which will go towards the playing squad, stadium and academy set up. 

Of the funds raised, £300m is part of a revolving credit facility, while the other £500m comes from a term loan. 

New owner Todd Boehly (left) poses with his first signing at Chelsea in Raheem Sterling 

On taking control at Stamford Bridge, Boehly and Clearlake vowed to invest a further £1.75bn into Chelsea, having bought the club from Abramovich for £2.5bn. 

On the pitch, Thomas Tuchel’s side are in the midst of a tour of the US. Their latest outing ended in a surprise defeat on penalties by Charlotte FC. 

Chelsea appear close to adding their third signing since the takeover, with the Blues having made an improved £55m offer for France defender Jules Kounde.

The Sevilla centre back has already agreed personal terms.  

Kalidou Koulibaly is another new arrival, with money being spent by the new owners