Alisher Usmanov has released a statement to assure Arsenal fans that he won’t be selling his 30% stake in the club to Stan Kroenke. He did hint he could sell to someone else, however.
Rumours had emerged that Kroenke had made a bid for Usmanov’s shares, in an attempt to assume 100% control of the club, reports the Daily Star.
In response, Usmanov told fans: “I would like to be clear that I am not holding any talks with Mr Kroenke about a sale. My interest in Arsenal from the beginning was long term and my intention has always been to buy additional shares should they become available,” reports the BBC’s David Ornstein.
“I have always been and will continue to be an ardent supporter of Arsenal and I see my 30% stake as an important aspect in protecting the best interests of the fans in the Club.”
Usmanov then went on to say that, although he won’t sell to Kroenke, he’s willing to consider alternative options. “If a party appears who shares my and undoubtedly the majority of fans’ vision for the club, I could consider the question of selling my stake.”
Earlier in the statement, Usmanov also confirmed his earlier bid to buy Kroenke’s shares, a bid which valued the club at £2bn, and he said that the bid is still on the table if Kroenke is interested.
Realistically it feels like we’re at a bit of an impasse, in my opinion. Kroenke wants Usmanov’s shares, Usmanov wants Kroenke’s shares, neither will sell to the other and no third party has shown a serious interest in buying out either.
However, the current stalemate is preferable to one or the other becoming the sole owner, for most fans. This way, there’s still some element of accountability, there has to be an Annual General Meeting, the publication of financial statements, and the other shareholders get a say in all major decisions.
For now, this is probably the best case scenario. At least until that consortium that shares the fans’ vision for the club comes along.