The Blues could not sign anyone during the recent summer and won’t be able to in January either as it stands.
Frank Lampard has got his side firing on all cylinders though, winning eight of their 12 Premier League matches so far.
But Lampard’s hopes of being able to strengthen his squad, whenever that may be, could reportedly be harmed by Abramovich’s thoughts on agents fees.
The Athletic claim that the Russian owner has grown increasingly frustrated by money being paid to representatives over the years.
It comes amid claims that Chelsea were at the front of the queue to sign Sergio Aguero in 2010.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has transfer gripe which could harm Frank Lampard’s side (Image: GETTY)
Roman Abramovich has helped Chelsea to plenty of success (Image: GETTY)
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Chelsea are currently third in the Premier League (Image: GETTY)
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But Abramovich was reportedly aggrieved by the £5million fee that was being demanded by Aguero’s agent Bruno Satin.
Abramovich's desire to pay as little as possible to agents might mean Chelsea miss out on prime targets - potentially harming their ability to challenge for honours.
Chelsea sit eight points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who are unbeaten this season.
But former Stamford Bridge hero Eden Hazard believes the Blues would have been challenging for the title if they could have signed players during the summer.
"I wasn't surprised about Frank Lampard," Hazard said. "I know Frank as a player, not a manager, but he is a great guy.