The Chelsea ownership battle is ramping up after American tycoon Ken Griffin joined forces with the Ricketts Family to become the latest party to confirm their interest in buying the club.
And Sportsmail has learned that the astronomically wealthy American family tried to buy Chelsea in 2018, with sources claiming they even made a formal offer for the club.
As part of those efforts, the Ricketts family completed extensive due diligence, which they feel gives them a head start in the race to become the club’s new owners.
There is an understanding that there is more groundwork to complete given their previous interest stretches back four years, nevertheless the family believe they are ready to move quickly with a bid with just two days to go until the deadline for offers.
With just two days to go until the deadline for bids, the Ricketts Family – who own the Chicago Cubs baseball franchise – have gone public with their intention to bid for the Stamford Bridge club by Friday’s deadline.
It is understood the Ricketts’ have teamed up with Griffin, the billionaire hedge fund tycoon, to form a consortium to buy Chelsea.
“The Ricketts Family, owners of the Chicago Cubs, can confirm they will be leading an investment group that will make a formal bid for Chelsea Football Club this Friday (March 18),” read a statement.
“As long-time operators of an iconic professional sports team, the Ricketts Family and their partners understand the importance of investing for success on the pitch, while respecting the traditions of the club, the fans and the community.
“We look forward to sharing further details of our plans in due course.”
