A Chelsea spokesman said the club was aware of Heims's statements but its position was unchanged from when chief executive Peter Kenyon issued a statement earlier this month, saying:
"Chelsea is not for sale. The owner has not and is not looking to sell his interest in the club and he remains as committed as ever."
Speculation had emerged that Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who has bankrolled the most successful period in Chelsea's history, may have lost interest in the club after continued failure to deliver Champions League triumph despite his huge investment.
Heims declined to say how much the group was prepared to pay for Chelsea but said the investment had to add up in the medium to long run.
Germany's tabloid Bild paper reported earlier a possible price tag of £721 million.
So far there had not been any talks with Abramovich, Heims said: "We have no intention of launching a hostile takeover. This is only possible as a friendly deal."
Captain John Terry is back for Chelsea after he missed the FA Cup win over Ipswich with back spasms. Jon Obi Mikel is in the squad but unlikely to start after his arrest for an alleged drink-driving incident in West London. Portugal duo Ricardo Carvalho and Deco have hamstring and calf complaints, while Michael Essien and Joe Cole have long-term with knee injuries. Didier Drogba is likely to stay on the bench again, with Nicolas Anelka preferred as the starting striker.
Midfield duo Didier Digard and Gary O’Neil are suspended for Boro, who could hand a start to Marlon King after he signed on loan from Wigan. Jeremie Aliadiere and Justin Hoyte are out injured.
No comments:
Post a Comment