Report: One of shortlisted Chelsea bidders prepared to meet financial demands
The Ricketts family is prepared to meet Chelsea’s financial demands which include a commitment of an additional £1bn in future investment, according to The Telegraph.
The Chicago Cubs owners are one of the four groups shortlisted by Raine Group, the New York-based investment bank in charge of the Chelsea sale.
The other three are LA Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly-led consortium, Sir Martin Broughton’s group which involves Crystal Palace’s part-owners Josh Harris and Dave Blitzer, and Boston Celtics and Atalanta co-owner Stephen Pagliuca.
The Ricketts family made the shortlist despite the #NoToRicketts social media campaign by the supporters.
The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust even expressed their concerns over the Ricketts group’s ability to “run an inclusive, successful club” on behalf of Chelsea’s diverse supporter base around the world via a statement on Twitter.
The Ricketts, however, seem to be one of the strongest contenders to buy Chelsea, at least financially, as The Telegraph claims they have made it clear that they can meet the club’s demands.
Chelsea reportedly insist that the eventual winning bidders will have to commit £1bn towards the renovation of Stamford Bridge and investment into the squad to keep the club competitive domestically and in Europe.
Although, it is hardly a surprise given their bid is reportedly backed by the Citadel hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin (Sky News).
Still, the highest bidders do not necessarily win the race, and The Telegraph mentioned that the view of Chelsea fans will be taken into consideration, which could spell bad news for the Ricketts’ hopes.
Raine, the report added, will further examine the fans’ backlash and the Ricketts’ response in which they insisted that their bid is inclusive of all supporters during the final stage of the sale.
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