BREAKING: Chelsea takeover nearing completion after latest UK government decision
Chelsea are on the approach of completing their takeover, according to noted writer Ben Jacobs, with a group formed by American business magnate Todd Boehly, in partnership with Clearlake Capitals, emerging as the front-runner in the battle to complete ownership of the Premier League club.
Raine Group has reduced the number of contenders for Chelsea ownership to four, including the Boehly group, Stephen Pagliuca, and British investor Sir Martin Broughton, after months of hard negotiations and documentation.
The Todd Boehly group appears to be on the approach of winning the contest, with the takeover expected to be finalized soon. On Wednesday, the two parties had constructive conversations, and Chelsea is presently not exploring any alternatives, clearing the path for a quick conclusion to the agreement.
The takeover would be a watershed moment in Chelsea’s history. Under previous owner Roman Abramovich, the team had enjoyed nearly two decades of success, winning numerous trophies, including two UEFA Champions League crowns.
Many Chelsea supporters are concerned that the takeover would result in significant changes in the club’s management. Although all four finalists agreed last month that Paul Mitchell should be appointed as sporting director, Chelsea may have to do without the influential Marina Granovskaia.
Even Thomas Tuchel’s future may be clouded in doubt. The German strategist deserves credit for steering Chelsea through a difficult era rather than blaming the club’s problems, but he may have to reconsider his position at Stamford Bridge now that the new owners have arrived.
Tuchel had a good connection with Abramovich, who had given him the authority to make whatever movements he wanted in the market. However, under Todd Boehly and his partners, notably Clearlake Capitals, this policy may alter.
Chelsea’s major objective with only a few games left until the end of the season will be to secure third place in the Premier League table. They are presently three points ahead of fourth-placed Arsenal, so there is no room for error for Tuchel’s side as the season nears its conclusion.