Roman Abramovich became the person in charge of the companies that control Chelsea in 2003 and has witnessed the Blues win 16 major trophies, in as much as he also had four other Premier League clubs in his sights.
There were Manchester United, Tottenham, Arsenal and Liverpool on the Russian shortlist.
It’s elaborated that Abramovich’s advisers first created a list of clubs throughout five European countries before it was reduced down to England.
There were five clubs shortlisted in as much as the current Blues owner actually owned a house in west London, making clubs in the capital a more logical choice.
Jon Smith’s book ‘The Deal’ elaborates that Abramovich’s camp held preparatory talks with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, in as much as a formal offer was never stated.
Questions were asked about Arsenal too, in as much as Abramovich and his team was told that the Gunners were not for sale.
It’s claimed that Chelsea was more receptive though were not in a healthy position.
Abramovich happened to meet Ken Bates once with both men shaking on a deal to sell the club.
