Alisher Usmanov has denied suggestions that he is considering selling his Arsenal shares to majority shareholder Stan Kroenke.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that Usmanov was attempting to buy out Kroenke, with the pair having been unable to strike a working relationship and mutually agree on the direction of the Gunners.
Recent reports claimed that Usmanov was in negotiations to sell his 30% share of the club, but the 64-year-old is assuring supporters that he remains committed to the Premier League outfit.
A statement read: "In recent days there has been speculation relating to a possible offer for my 30% stake in Arsenal. As part of that I can understand the anxiety that these rumours are causing to the fans as reflected by the Arsenal Supporters Trust. In light of this, I would like to be clear that I am not holding any talks with Mr Kroenke about a sale.
"My interest in Arsenal from the beginning was long term and my intention has always been to buy additional shares should they become available. This I did with the purchase of the stake of my business partner Farhad Moshiri with which I increased my shareholding from 13% to 30%, and also with my proposed offer for the stake of the majority shareholder which valued the Club at some £2bn. That offer remains valid today.
"I have always been and will continue to be an ardent supporter of Arsenal and I see my 30% stake as an important aspect in protecting the best interests of the fans in the club. It has been well documented that I have no say in the running of the club, that my views differ from those of the majority shareholder and that I would take a different approach to delivering footballing success.
"I would like to assure supporters that I am open to various future scenarios – a constructive partnership with the majority shareholder, the purchase of his stake either alone or in a consortium, or if a party appears who shares my and undoubtedly the majority of fans' visions for the club, I could consider the question of selling my stake."
Kroenke played a key role in handing manager Arsene Wenger a new contract during the summer.
Darren Plant
