Could Usmanov join Moshiri at Goodison?

Lyndon Lloyd | Wednesday, 17 August 2016

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Updated 18 August, 2016

The oft-pondered eventuality that Alisher Usmanov might sell his stake at Arsenal to join Farhad Moshiri at Everton has been the topic of conjecture this week but a statement from the Russian's camp has played down the talk.

According to long-running Gunners fan site Arseblog, speculation is mounting that Usmanov's almost non-existent relationship with majority owner Stan Kroenke and his frustration with not being able get a seat on the Arsenal board could see him sell up at the Emirates.

That could lead him to Everton where it has long been mused that the multi-billionaire Russian might one day reunite with his long-time friend and business partner, Moshiri.

Moshiri was part-owner of Red & White Holdings through which he held a 15% stake in Arsenal until earlier this year when he sold his share to Usmanov in order to purchase 49.9% of Everton.

The British-Iranian, a billionaire himself, is said to have become disillusioned himself with not being able to gain a presence on the Arsenal board and eventually took flight to Goodison Park to fulfil his football ambitions there.

Sources close to Usmanov have been consistent in their denials that the Russian tycoon is looking to quit Arsenal, however, and that he is confident of persuading Kroenke to loosen his grip on the London club.

Indeed, the Evening Standard's Chief Football Correspondent, James Olley, tweeted this evening that there was nothing to these latest rumours:

Been told by source close to Usmanov camp there is nothing in rumours of selling stake in #afc. They insists its business as usual.

That has been since been reinforced by a statement from R&W saying that, "contrary to some speculative media reports, Red and White Holdings would like to state that Mr. Alisher Usmanov does not intend to sell his stake in Arsenal.

"Mr Usmanov continues to be committed to Arsenal and considers his stake in the Club as a long-term investment for his family and future generations."

â†’ More at GrandOldTeam: Usmanov to Everton — Da Ili Nyet?

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