The Ricketts family, Todd Boehly and Robert 'Woody' Johnson have reportedly been handed the advantage in the race to purchase Chelsea Football Club.
According to the Evening Standard, prospective buyers of Chelsea with experience in running a sports team will be given preference in their bids to take over the west London club. All three parties are said to be going head-to-head to buy the Blues from Roman Abramovich amid the Russian billionaire being sanctioned by the UK government.
Nick Candy, a British property developer and a lifelong Chelsea supporter, and a Saudi Media-led consortium are also interested in the purchase. The report claims that Raine Group and the UK government, who are in charge of organising the sale, reportedly both favour a buyer who has the best chance of ensuring stability at the club.
READ MORE: Nick Candy has Chelsea takeover meeting with Marina Granovskaia amid Roman Abramovich sanctions
The Ricketts family own Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise Chicago Cubs. They have recently confirmed their interest in buying Chelsea, alongside billionaire Ken Griffin.
A spokesperson for the family said: "The Ricketts family, owners of the Chicago Cubs, can confirm they will be leading an investment group that will make a formal bid for Chelsea Football Club this Friday (March 18). As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community."
Meanwhile, Boehly is a part owner of MLB side Los Angeles Dodgers and has also registered his interest in a consortium with Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss. The experience Boehly has with the Dodgers could prove crucial in his attempts to take over at Chelsea.
Johnson, who has reportedly declined to comment on the speculation linking him with Chelsea, is said to be considering making an offer for the club. The American businessman currently owns NFL franchise New York Jets.
