Premier League chiefs have demanded proof that Chelsea Football Club is not owned by Saudi Arabia, following reports that three of the club’s stars are set to join the Saudi Pro League. The players in question are Kalidou Koulibaly, Hakim Ziyech, and Edouard Mendy, who are all reportedly heading to different clubs in the Middle East. The exodus of players has caused concern among Premier League officials, who have asked Chelsea to provide proof that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) was not part of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s takeover of the club last summer. Chelsea has since provided the necessary proof, and Premier League officials are believed to be satisfied that there are no conflicts of interest.
Chelsea’s Spending Spree
Since Boehly came in as co-owner and replaced Roman Abramovich, Chelsea has spent £653.7m on 20 players. This has caused concern among rival clubs, who are unhappy with the club’s spending spree. However, Boehly has defended the club’s spending, stating that it is necessary to remain competitive in the Premier League.
Saudi-Owned Newcastle United
Last summer, Boehly spoke about Saudi-owned Newcastle United and felt they were now part of the Premier League’s “big seven” due to their newfound spending power. A Saudi-backed consortium completed a £300m takeover of Newcastle in October 2021, and Eddie Howe’s side secured a fourth-placed finish last season.
Chelsea’s Former Players Joining Saudi Clubs
N’Golo Kante has just moved to Al-Ittihad on a free transfer after his Chelsea deal expired, and he will soon be joined by a number of his former teammates. According to reports, Koulibaly will join Al-Hilal, Ziyech is heading to Al-Nassr, and Mendy is on his way to Al-Ahli after agreements were reached yesterday, and their contracts are now being prepared.
Premier League Officials’ Concerns
The exodus of players swapping west London for the Middle East has caused concern among Premier League officials. They have demanded proof that Chelsea is not owned by Saudi Arabia, as there are concerns that the club may be being used as a vehicle for Saudi investment in the Premier League. However, Chelsea has provided the necessary proof, and Premier League officials are believed to be satisfied that there are no conflicts of interest.
Conclusion
Chelsea Football Club has been asked to provide proof that it is not owned by Saudi Arabia following reports that three of the club’s stars are set to join the Saudi Pro League. Premier League officials have expressed concern about the exodus of players and have demanded proof that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) was not part of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s takeover of the club last summer. Chelsea has since provided the necessary proof, and Premier League officials are believed to be satisfied that there are no conflicts of interest. The club’s spending spree has caused concern among rival clubs, but Boehly has defended the club’s spending, stating that it is necessary to remain competitive in the Premier League.