Chelsea had a fee agreed with Chicago Fire for young goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina before owner Roman Abramovicw the club seized by the UK government.

The UK Government froze the assets of the Blues owner earlier this month, meaning the Stamford Bridge hierarchy are currently unable to sign players. Talks with the MLS side for goalkeeper Slonina, 17, have broken down as a result, per Fabrizio Romano.

He tweeted: “Chelsea were in advanced talks to sign talented Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina [born in 2004]. The plan was to sign Slonina for €6/7m (£5/5.8m) fee, then loan him back to Chicago until 2023. Talks have now broken down due to UK sanctions.”

Slonina established himself as first choice for Chicago towards the end of their 2021 season. And he has off to a flyer at the start of the 2022 campaign, which will only further frustrate Chelsea.

In the opening four games he has conceded just one goal following two 0-0 draws and 2-0 and 3-1 victories. Despite his tender age, Slonina stands at 6’4″ tall in between the sticks.