Chelsea is getting ready to launch a multi-club strategy as Todd Boehly looks to play for a European team.
Todd Boehly is interested in investing in French club Strasbourg as Chelsea looks to emulate Manchester City's multi-team model.
Todd Boehly, a co-owner of Chelsea, is almost ready to begin his multi-club ambition at Stamford Bridge by investing in Strasbourg of France. Since last summer, Boehly and Clearlake Capital have been hunting for suitable teams to buy in an effort to emulate Manchester City's strategy of holding holdings in other clubs throughout the globe.
The American co-owner of the Blues has acknowledged that he made a number of errors during his first full season in that role, but he still intends to move forward with his long-term plan. Boehly is anticipated to support new manager Mauricio Pochettino with more arrivals while also reducing the club's overly large roster after spending £600 million on new recruits in the previous 12 months.
Next season, Chelsea won't participate in any European competitions, which could help Pochettino with the renovation at Stamford Bridge by giving him more time with his players on the practise pitch. West London has several initiatives in the works, but Boehly is still searching for additional teams to invest in and create a multi-club model.
According to a story in The Guardian, Boehly is getting ready to invest in Strasbourg before the upcoming campaign. The co-owner of Chelsea has stated that the Blues can provide a clear pathway for young players to experience first-team football through a multi-club model, expediting their development and giving them the chance to play for the West London team.
The clubs in France, Belgium, Portugal, and South America have all caught Chelsea's attention. There have been discussions with Bordeaux, but it is believed that a contract with Strasbourg would benefit Boehly and the Blues financially more.
Unknown is the size of the potential share that Boehly is willing to purchase, but negotiations are said to be going well. It is believed that the price would depend on Strasbourg's ability to prevent Ligue 1 relegation, as the team is now five points above the bottom four with three games remaining.
According to the article, Chelsea is also rumoured to be considering investing in Portimonense, a Portuguese football team. After Boehly and Bordeaux's president, Gerard Lopez, were unable to reach an agreement, the Blues increased their interest in Strasbourg.
Boehly and Marc Keller, the president of Strasbourg, are known to have recently had fruitful conversations. At Strasbourg, there are 11 shareholders, and Keller, whose 27% stake is the largest, has been attentive to their worries.
A foothold in a nation that turns out some of the top players in the world would be provided for Chelsea by gaining influence at Strasbourg. Additionally, they would have a method of gaining experience for young players who might ultimately be moved to Stamford Bridge.
