Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has ordered a comprehensive financial audit of every department of his club, it has been revealed.
The Observer says the increasing restriction on cash flow at the club is such that the audit, which remains ongoing, has since halted three major capital investment projects in their tracks. These are:
The refurbishment of the Chelsea Health Club at Stamford Bridge.
The conversion of the stadium's 'Purple' nightclub into a music venue.
The construction of a luxurious new-build house at the club's stockbroker-belt training ground.
Further economies under consideration include charging players for meals at the training ground.
A Chelsea spokesman said: "As all businesses concerned about the economic downturn will be doing, we are looking across the business to see where savings can be made. Costs at Stamford Bridge and the training ground are part of this ongoing review."