Premier League in Talks with Chelsea Over Resale Platform Links | OneFootball

Chelsea Transfers Under Scrutiny Amid Ticketing Controversy

Premier League Seeks Clarity from Chelsea

Chelsea Football Club finds itself at the centre of a Premier League investigation into its relationship with ticket resellers, with specific attention on co-owner Todd Boehly’s involvement in Vivid Seats. The American businessman holds a dual role as both a director and investor in Vivid, which the league has described as an “unauthorised ticket seller,” while also possessing a 13 percent stake in Chelsea.

This unusual overlap has prompted formal communication from Premier League officials, requesting clarification from the club. Premier League CEO Richard Masters confirmed during a recent Football Supporters’ Association event that the situation is “ongoing.”

Photo: IMAGO

Vivid’s Role Raises Eyebrows

Vivid Seats has previously listed Chelsea fixtures on its platform, with certain matches at Stamford Bridge fetching up to £20,000. While Vivid cannot legally operate in the United Kingdom, its business is permitted internationally. That nuance has done little to calm fears of improper conduct.

Chelsea Supporters’ Trust (CST) has demanded action. In an open letter released in March, the group urged the Premier League to “act and investigate,” calling the situation both a “breach of trust” and “a clear conflict of interest.” The CST has also submitted evidence against Vivid to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Stamford Bridge Concerns and Atmosphere Woes

Although Chelsea have recently promised to tackle ticket touting, there was no direct mention of Vivid or any specific reseller. The CST responded by saying it was “encouraged” by the commitment.

However, concerns continue to mount around the matchday atmosphere at Stamford Bridge. Former manager Mauricio Pochettino, and more recently Enzo Maresca, have both noted the “flat” mood in the stands, even during trials of a singing section in European competition.

Boehly’s Interests and Wider Implications

Vivid CEO Stanley Chia cited “economic and political volatility” as key factors affecting the global ticketing market, after the company’s share price fell 61 percent this year. While Boehly, Chelsea and Vivid have yet to comment, pressure is growing as questions persist around the integrity of Chelsea’s transfer operations and wider commercial conduct.

Chelsea, currently competing in the Club World Cup in the United States, will next face ES Tunis in Philadelphia on Tuesday night.