Alisher Usmanov has increased his stake in Arsenal to 30.04% as he pledges ‘long-term investment’.

Usmanov, the second-largest shareholder at the club, has often been vocal about what he sees as the club’s failings, especially when it comes to the transfer market while the Arsenal board have often been hostile towards him, refusing to allow him a seat despite his large stake.

His shareholding rose after he purchased an additional 18,695 shares from Red and White’s Farhad Moshiri.

Speaking about the deal, Usmanov said “I am committed to Arsenal and I will proudly retain my holding as a long-term investment and my family to enjoy and benefit for generations to come.”

According to Forbes Rich List, Usmanov is worth $9.2bn with his fortune being made through metals and mining as well as telecommunications and media.

He first purchase a stake in Arsenal in 2007 when he acquired 14.58% but has been slowly increasing that on a regular basis with a view, no doubt, to one day owning the majority share himself.

Stan Kroenke, who currently holds that stake, has shown no inclination to sell to the Uzbeki and the club looks set to be owned by divided factions for the foreseeable future.