The Premier League have refused to grant Chelsea permission to agree a deal with American streaming service Paramount Plus as Chelsea’s new shirt sponsor, according to the Sun.

The Premier League refused to give Chelsea permission to complete the agreement with Paramount Plus the Premier League believe the deal will upset UK broadcasters Sky Sports and BT Sport.

American streaming service Paramount Plus shows Premier League matches outside UK, and is not considered a direct rival to Sky Sports and BT Sport.

Paramount Plus were featured on Inter Milan’s shirts for their Champions League final defeat to Man City.

Chelsea’s £40million-a-year deal with Three has expired and the Blues are seeking for a new shirt sponsor ahead of next season.

Talks with German banking giant Allianz fell through after they offered just £20m a year.

Chelsea have also been linked with a one-year, £40m deal with betting group Stake.com.

Stake.com is now thought to be leading the race to become Chelsea’s sponsor for the new season.

But it would have to be a short-term deal, as a ban on gambling sponsors comes into play in 2025.