Former Chelsea stars have stepped in to help financially troubled Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem - with ex-Blues academy talents Lewis Baker and Matt Miazga among those contributing to a crowdfunding campaign. The club has a reported debt of nearly £16million following a failed takeover.

Vitesse, who had a strong relationship with Chelsea during the 2010s, were hit with a record 18-point deduction in the Eredivisie after an investigation by the KNVB's licensing committee found 'indications' that Roman Abramovich had controlled - or still controlled - the club. This left them with -1 point before their recent win over Fortuna Sittard.

Despite this victory, the penalty has confirmed their relegation to the second tier for the first time in 35 years. American businessman Coley Parry's attempt to buy out the club's current Russian owners was unsuccessful.

His Common Group, similar to 777 Partners who proposed to take over Everton, had already invested in Vitesse before the Dutch football authorities ruled that their purchase could not proceed. The club is now appealing for donations from supporters and businesses.

A crowdfunding campaign launched on Thursday claims that Baker and Miazga are among the players who have donated, although the exact amounts of their contributions remain undisclosed, reports the Express. RB Leipzig's Lois Openda is among the many who have donated to Vitesse's crowdfunding campaign.

Chelsea had a strong relationship with Vitesse under Roman Abramovich, with several youngsters enjoying successful loan spells there, including Baker, Miazga, Mason Mount, Armando Broja, and Dominic Solanke. A total of 29 players were sent on loan from Chelsea to Vitesse over 11 years.

READ MORE: Chelsea have already identified Thiago Silva replacement after emotional transfer decision

READ MORE: Every word Mauricio Pochettino said on Chelsea injuries, Thiago Silva, Tottenham, Noni Madueke

Newly appointed Vitesse head coach John van den Brom is leading the crowdfunding campaign, urging supporters and businesses to help the club avoid bankruptcy and the potential loss of their playing licence.

They have until May 17 to secure a licence for 2024-25. "Participate, colour the region yellow and black and come up with initiatives yourself. Vitesse needs everyone," Van den Brom said.

"This beautiful club must not disappear. I therefore call on every Vitesse resident to get behind the club now, like last Sunday (a 3-2 win over Fortuna Sittard).

"Show that Vitesse is alive. Together with various Vitesse residents, I will therefore launch a crowdfunding campaign tomorrow."