27 Aug 2009Usmanov not backing down in Arsenal power battle

Football Clubs News | Football Finance News

Alisher Usmanov remains committed to playing a key role behind the scenes at Arsenal, despite recently losing his status as the club's largest shareholder to Stan Kroenke.

This is according to a report in the Guardian, which states that the Uzbeki-born businessman has "not been deterred" by Kroenke's acquisitions and recently added to his 25 per cent stake in a fresh share-buying spree.

Although Usmanov's latest purchases have not brought the stake of his investment vehicle Red and White Holdings through the 26 per cent barrier, his football finance activity indicates that his battle with Kroenke for control of the club is far from over.

American sports tycoon Kroenke is currently the largest shareholder at Arsenal with a 28.3 per cent stake, although he has stopped short of crossing the 30 per cent threshold that would lead to a mandatory takeover bid.

Usmanov bought David Dein's 14.5 per cent stake in the English Premier League outfit in late 2007.

Meanwhile, shareholder Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith is expected to return to Arsenal for the first time since losing her place on the board at next month's home match against Wigan Athletic.

Written by Paul Roberts

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