Who will be Chelsea's next shirt sponsor? Why Blues are considering short-term options as Infinite Athlete deal comes to an end - explained

Chelsea signed a multi-year deal with Infinite Athlete last year, but the agreement ensured the company's name would only be printed on the front of the team's shirts for one full season. The Blues are in the hunt for a replacement, but they are reluctant to sign a long-term deal.

The London team's desire to sign another short-term deal is motivated by their absence from the Champions League, The Telegraph reports. Chelsea's management feel they will be able to attract a more lucrative offer if they return to Europe's most prestigious club competition the following year.

Two Middle Eastern airlines are among the number of companies holding talks with the Premier League team over a deal. However, Chelsea are in a race against time to tie down a new sponsor before their 2024-25 shirts go on sale. They started last season without a sponsor on their shirts and could find themselves in a similar position this time around.

Chelsea begin their pre-season tour of the United States later this month, with matches against Wrexham, Celtic, Club America, Manchester City and Real Madrid scheduled. They will at least hope to have a new sponsor in place by the time their Premier League campaign begins with a match against reigning champions City on August 18.