Dein backs Usmanov input

Former Arsenal vice-chairman feels investment is necessary

By James Dall   Last updated: 28th June 2008

David Dein

Dein: Backing Usmanov

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Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein believes Alisher Usmanov's financial backing would ensure the club remains a top Premier League side.

Red and White Holdings Limited, an investment vehicle co-owned by Russian billionaire Usmanov and fronted by Dein, holds just under a 25 per cent stake in the Gunners.

A 'lock-down' agreement has been enforced by The Gunner board, although Usmanov has previously insisted there are no plans to make a formal takeover bid.

But Dein feels a big-money takeover is necessary if the club are to continue to develop, otherwise they risk being overtaken by their rivals.

Dynamic

"Luckily, they have [manager] Arsene [Wenger] but you have to give the man a chance," Dein said.

"I don't want to see Arsenal as the second or even third team in London.

"I can see the way the game is going. The wealthier are going to get wealthier and more successful. It is getting polarised."

Of Usmanov, he added: "He would change the whole dynamic of the club. At Arsenal, something has to break."