Turkish billionaire emerges favourite to buy Chelsea
The tycoon is chairman of the AB Holding Group, which has investments in energy, mining and cryptocurrency.
Turkish tycoon Muhsin Bayrak claims he has struck a deal with Roman Abramovich for Chelsea.
And the billionaire reckons he will soon have a red flag flying over Stamford Bridge after boasting he is close to buying the reigning European Cup champions.
Bayrak, who is believed to be worth £7.6billion, said: “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.
“Our lawyers and Roman Abramovich’s have been in touch since the first day Chelsea entered the sales process.
“The negotiation process has come to an end and we are planning to sign soon. This sale is also very important for Turkey.”
A representative for Bayrak added: “Yes, we definitely confirm. We have forwarded our offer regarding this to them.”
He entered the race to buy Chelsea 24 hours after a consortium led by Swiss-American duo Hansjorg Wyss and Todd Boehly went public about their bid.
The tycoon is chairman of the AB Holding Group, which has investments in energy, mining and cryptocurrency.
Competition for Chelsea could drive the price up but City experts reckon Rom will be lucky to get half of the club’s £3bn valuation.
Boss Thomas Tuchel insisted whoever buys the club will get the keys to a business in great shape.
He said: “The owner is selling a well-structured, top organisation.
“Right now I don’t see why we should be in fear and concern. It’s a pleasure to work here.”
But Chelsea’s Supporters’ Trust have warned any new owners there must be no repeat of the controversial plan to join a breakaway European Super League.
A statement read: “Negotiations must include a guarantee there will be no attempts to exit existing sporting structures without engagement of key stakeholders, with supporters at the forefront.”
