The unrelenting Russian revolution that began at Chelsea almost four years ago looks set to continue after billionaire owner Roman Abramovich claimed the money was still available to attract top players to the club.
After a frustrating season, in which the club only managed to win the FA Cup, rumours were abound that the money well had dried up and that players like Frank Lampard and skipper John Terry may leave the Premier League club.
Such speculation could not be further from the truth, according to Russia's richest man, who is worth an estimated €14 billion.
"This is absolute nonsense," he told Ekho Moskvy radio station. "Everything will remain the same. My relationship with Chelsea has not changed and I wouldn't want to change anything."
Abramovich has spent nearly $500 million on players since buying Chelsea in 2003, including shelling out a British record £30 million for Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko.
Though the Russian did not mention manager Jose Mourinho, his insistence that he would not change a thing suggests that Portuguese is safe in his job, if he wants to stay.
Having led the club to two Premiership titles, two European cup semi-finals and an FA Cup during his short tenure, Mourinho may feel the time has come for a new challenge.
If not, he appears to have the backing of the owner to strengthen his squad, or show some players the door.
That process has begun already with estranged striker Hernan Crespo confirming he is to stay on loan with Italian champions Inter Milan for another season.
"FC Internazionale have received a fax from Chelsea stating that Argentinian striker Hernan Crespo is free to remain with the Nerazzurri for the second season of his two-year loan deal," a club statement read.
The 31-year-old striker said: "I am very happy. Staying at Inter was what I wanted. I would like to thank Chelsea first of all for their help, and Inter for confirming their faith in me."
It is believed that the deal will pave the way for a two-year contract with the club at the end of next season.
