Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was just sanctioned by the U.K. government because of his ties to Vladimir Putin, throwing a wrench into his plans to sell the club, according to ESPN's James Olley.

While Abramovich has denied ties to Putin, that didn't stop the U.K. government from freezing his assets, including Chelsea. Six other Russian oligarchs were sanctioned as part of this big move.

Because Chelsea is now frozen as an Abramovich asset, he can't sell the club. There were reportedly multiple bids in, though none had hit the £3 billion valuation he's seeking. ESPN reports the U.K. government would be open to an application for a special license to allow a sale, but in that scenario, Abramovich wouldn't be able to benefit as long as he's sanctioned.

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a statement on the decision to sanction Abramovich and the other Russian oligarchs, saying “there can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine.” An accompanying statement specifically aimed at the Chelsea owner said this:

“Abramovich is associated with a person who is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine and undermining and threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine, namely Vladimir Putin, with whom Abramovich has had a close relationship for decades,” it read.

“This association has included obtaining a financial benefit or other material benefit from Putin and the Government of Russia.”

This sanction also means Chelsea can't sell new tickets for future matches, must close the club shop and can't agree on any new contracts. While the transfer window just closed, there also can't be any new deals for the summer.