Dubai investors reveal Premier League ambition for Addicks

11:06am Sunday 12th October 2008

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CHARLTON Athletic could become the next football club to be taken over by foreign investors.

The Addicks have received an “indicative cash offer” from the Dubai-based company Zabeel Investments.

The club will enter a period of due diligence with Zabeel before any formal offer is made.

But already, the firm has made its ambitions for Charlton clear, with promotion back to the top flight of English football the priority.

Mohammed Al Hashimi, executive chairman of Zabeel Investments, said: "We feel now is the right time to make a strategic, long-term investment in Charlton and get CAFC back to the English Premier League where they belong.

"The passion of the fans at Charlton, the heritage of the club and the unique status it enjoys in the community make it an exciting proposition for us.”

A statement from the club said: "Should the offer be made formally to shareholders, the board would recommend shareholders to accept it.

"There is, however, no certainty that a formal offer will be made."

Zabeel has been looking at investing in an English club and has chosen Charlton despite being approached by various clubs here and overseas.

Derek Chappell, chairman of Charlton Athletic plc, and Richard Murray, chairman of the football club, said: "The board firmly believes that a successful outcome for this transaction would be beneficial to shareholders and employees of Charlton, all fans of the club and the local community as a whole.”

What do you think about the news? Would you be in favour of foreign investors taking control of Charlton? Add your comments below.