Chelsea’s new owner spotted at Stamford Bridge in EPL clash as takeover nears completion
Todd Boehly has been sighted at Stamford Bridge once more as his Chelsea Football Club takeover nears completion. The American businessman is leading a consortium that has agreed to take over at Chelsea, and he will be in attendance for tonight’s match against Leicester City.
Boehly was also in attendance for the Blues’ penultimate home game against Wolves, in which the team blew a two-goal lead late on at the Bridge. The American was spotted again in attendance for the Premier League’s last match of the season.
It is believed that Boehly’s purchase of the club is closer than ever to completion, with the Government and the Premier League close to an agreement. Just hours before, there had been contradicting accounts.
Chelsea issued a statement on May 7 confirming that a buyout with the Boehly-led group had been completed, and he was at Stamford Bridge less than 24 hours later for the draw with Wolves. “Chelsea Football Club can confirm that arrangements have been negotiated for a new ownership group led by Todd Boehly, Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter, and Hansjoerg Wyss to buy the Club,” said the statement.
“Of the total investment being made, £2.5bn will be applied to purchase the shares in the Club and such proceeds will be deposited into a frozen UK bank account with the intention to donate 100% to charitable causes, as confirmed by Roman Abramovich. UK Government approval will be required for the proceeds to be transferred from the frozen UK bank account. In addition, the proposed new owners will commit £1.75bn in further investment for the benefit of the Club.
“This includes investments in Stamford Bridge, the Academy, the Women’s Team and Kingsmeadow and continued funding for the Chelsea Foundation. The sale is expected to complete in late May, subject to all necessary regulatory approvals. More details will be provided at that time.”
Chelsea supporters will be hopeful that the club’s sale is finalised sooner rather than later, as a new era awaits in west London. A massive squad overhaul is planned this summer, but the ownership problem must be resolved before any transfer-related activity can take place.
