see all jobs
Usmanov denies Arsenal takeover talk
Russian billionaire, Alisher Usmanov, has denied speculation that he is about to launch a takeover bid for Arsenal Football Club (AFC) following the unexpected departure of two directors.
The club announced on 18 December that Nina Bracewell-Smith, who is reported to hold a 15.9 per cent stake in the club, had left the boards of both Arsenal Holdings and Arsenal Football Club with immediate effect. Bracewell-Smith's departure released the former director from a lock-down agreement imposed by the club in 2007, once again raising speculation that Usmanov was set to buy her stake in order to gain control of the club.
Speaking to The Guardian on 23 December, Usmanov said: "I have not held any negotiations with her about a purchase. I haven't seen her and so far she has not announced that she wants to sell. There is no point in discussing something that doesn't exist." Usmanov currently owns 24.9 per cent of AFC through Red and White Holdings, and he did reveal to the newspaper that he is still looking to secure a blocking stake of 29.9 per cent in the club.
In addition to Bracewell-Smith's departure, Richard Carr also announced his resignation from the board of Arsenal Holdings, although he will remain a director of the club.
More News
- News by sector (all)
- All news
- Fitness
- Personal trainer
- Sport
- Spa
- Swimming
- Hospitality
- Entertainment & Gaming
- Commercial Leisure
- Property
- Architecture
- Design
- Tourism
- Travel
- Attractions
- Theme & Water Parks
- Arts & Culture
- Heritage & Museums
- Parks & Countryside
- Sales & Marketing
- Public Sector
- Training
- People
- Executive
- Apprenticeships
- Suppliers