Turkish businessman Muhsin Bayrak claims he has launched an offer to take over the ownership of Chelsea.
Roman Abramovich unveiled his plans to sell Chelsea on Wednesday, just days after it was revealed that the club’s ‘stewardship and care’ had been given up to its foundation trustees amid possible anti-Russian sanctions.
It comes after Russian military forces launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine under the orders of president Vladimir Putin, who Abramovich has reportedly held close ties with in the past.
Abramovich – who has overseen 15 managers and 21 trophies across his 19-year-old reign – values the club at between £3-4bn and has vowed to donate all net proceeds from the sale to victims of the conflict in Ukraine.
Swiss philanthropist Hansjorg Wyss and LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly have since made their interest known and are reported to be preparing an offer for the west London giants.
Meanwhile, Bayrak, the billionaire owner of construction company AB Grup Holding, has confirmed he is ‘confident’ of completing a takeover after making an offer to succeed Abramovich at Stamford Bridge.
‘Yes, we definitely confirm. We have forwarded our offer regarding this to them,’ a spokesperson of the Turk told The Guardian.
Bayrak had earlier told Turkish media: ‘We are discussing the terms of Chelsea’s purchase with Roman Abramovich’s lawyers. ‘We’re negotiating signatures. We will soon fly the Turkish flag in London.’
According to The Guardian, as many as ten interested parties have emerged as possible buyers after Abramovich’s announcement in midweek.
But, one of those that had been credited with a strong interest, Loutfy Mansour, distanced themselves from the reports on Friday, denying rumours of a possible takeover bid.
‘In light of the recent media speculation, we want to make it clear that we are not pursuing a bid for Chelsea Football Club at this time,’ the billionaire Egyptian businessman said.
