Chelsea are set to join the ranks of Premier League teams adopting a multi-club model.
They have agreed a deal for Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital to acquire a significant stake in Ligue 1 club Strasbourg, according to journalist Romain Molina.
The Guardian’s Ed Aarons believes the deal will see Chelsea secure nearly 100% ownership of the French club.
There are plans to extend their multi-club approach to Portugal by acquiring Rio Ave.
Boehly stated that he wants to create pathways for Chelsea’s young talents.
He has commended the successful multi-club models implemented by City Football Group and Red Bull.
Newcastle United director, Amanda Staveley, has shown interest in emulating Manchester City’s model. City’s network now encompasses 13 clubs across six continents.
While the official confirmation of the deal is pending, Strasbourg supporters have already expressed discontent.
Ultras of the club held a sign reading ‘Boehly, not welcome’ following the news of the investment.
For Chelsea, buying Strasbourg provides an opportunity to develop their young players.
It will potentially aid foreign players in accumulating enough points to meet the governing body exemption rules.
The Football Association established new stringent rules after the United Kingdom left the European Union.
Chelsea’s interest in pursuing a multi-club model intensified after comments by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin in March.
Ceferin had stated that the organisation was considering changing the current regulations prohibiting clubs with the same majority owners from competing in the same tournament.
With this move, the Blues join a growing list of Premier League clubs exploring the multi-club approach.
They want to create a network of teams that can support player development.
It will enhance their scouting capabilities and potentially expand the club’s global presence.
As the landscape of football ownership continues to evolve, fans, critics, and the footballing community will closely monitor the success and impact of this model.
