Key backers of the Ricketts Family's bid to buy Chelsea outright, Ken Griffin and Dan Gilbert, have agreed on 'investment' and 'fan' promises amid the everchanging Blues takeover race.
Todd Boehly and the Ricketts Family seem to be the two frontrunners in this everchanging race with both consortiums having been shown Cobham already, whilst also meeting former Blues ace Paul Canoville to discuss diversity and inclusion strategy. The former of the pair was even pictured and filmed at Stamford Bridge watching on from the executive box as Chelsea fell to a first-leg Champions League defeat against Real Madrid. It was a move that went down well in the fanbase.
All interested parties have until April 18 to improve their offers as the Raine Group in conjunction with senior Chelsea figures prepare for the next phase of the new ownership search. Whoever is to win the race has a number of issues to sort out. Canoville has already outlined three priorities he wants to see from the new owners and Griffin and Gilbert's words arguably offer the assurances that they can keep these promises.
READ MORE: Chelsea sale: State of play as Todd Boehly and Ricketts Family follow suit in race to buy club
“I am thrilled to come together with my long-time friends and partners, the Ricketts Family and Dan Gilbert, who have built legendary championship teams," Griffin announced to the Mirror. "All of us love to compete and, even more, we love to win. Our group will work closely together to put the most competitive team on the pitch every year.
“If selected, we will validate the trust placed in us to continue Chelsea’s winning tradition while delivering a terrific game day experience for the fans.” Gilbert then followed suit with his own statement: "We are excited to join the Ricketts Family and Ken Griffin for their bid to acquire Chelsea, one of the most admired football clubs and professional sports teams in the world.
“We have great respect and deep admiration for the long and winning tradition of Chelsea and their millions of fans across the world. Rock Entertainment Group will approach the bid for Chelsea with the same philosophy as we operate our other professional sports teams.
“[With] an open mind and a listening ear to the fanbase, ample investment and an unwavering commitment to both winning on the pitch and serving the community.”
