British reports have revealed that an Egyptian businessman is interested in buying Chelsea Football Club, following its Russian owner Roman Abramovich's decision to sell amid the crisis in England due to the Russian attack on Ukrainian territory. The British newspaper "Daily Telegraph" stated that Egyptian businessman Lotfi Mansour is keen on purchasing Chelsea after the club was put up for sale by Abramovich.
The report indicated that Lotfi Mansour, a holder of a season ticket for Chelsea, has already made an offer to Abramovich to buy the club. At 33 years old, Lotfi Mansour is the CEO of "Man Capital," the investment arm of his family's Mansour Group.
Abramovich previously issued a new statement confirming that he decided to sell the club because he believes this decision is in the best interest of the club, its fans, and its employees. He stated, "I have decided to set up a charity foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated... It will serve to aid all victims of the war in Ukraine, including providing essential funds to meet the urgent and immediate needs of the victims, as well as supporting long-term recovery efforts."
Abramovich's statement read as follows: "I would like to address the media speculation over the past few days regarding the ownership of Chelsea FC. As I have stated before, I have always made decisions in the best interest of the club. In the current situation, I have made the decision to sell the club as I believe it is in the best interest of the club, its fans, employees, as well as the club's sponsors and partners. The sale will not be rushed but will follow proper legal procedures. I will not seek repayment of any loans. This has never been about business or money for me, but rather about pure passion for the game and the club. Furthermore, I have instructed my team to create a charity foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. It will be aimed at aiding all victims of the war in Ukraine, providing necessary funds to meet the urgent needs of the victims and supporting long-term recovery efforts. Please know that this was an extremely difficult decision, and it pains me to part with the club in this way. However, I believe this is in the best interest of the club. I hope to be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to personally say goodbye to all of you. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea, and I am proud of all our shared achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always remain in my heart."