Atalanta co-owner Stephen Pagliuca admits that he is ready to place a ‘substantial and credible offer’ to buy Chelsea from Roman Abramovich.
Pagliuca’s group acquired a majority stake in Atalanta in February, although it was announced as a partnership between La Dea and the American investors. Pagliuca is now determined to make a ‘credible offer’ to buy Chelsea from Abramovich, who the British Government has sanctioned following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February.
“Throughout my life and career, my ethos has always been to operate quietly, with integrity, and let my actions and results speak loudly,” Pagliuca told Sky News UK.
“However, it is imperative to clarify and assure supporters about our bid group and its commitments, to emphasize how seriously we take our potential responsibility to Chelsea.”
Pagliuca, who is also the co-owner of NBA team Boston Celtics, added that the offer will be ‘substantial and credible.’ According to the report, Pagliuca would be ready to reduce his stake in Atalanta to complete the Blues’ takeover.
“Our first focus and goal is to make strategic investments to continue competing for championships and trophies,” he continued.
“We will support our players and managers to make sure that Chelsea are habitual winners and title contenders, whether in the Premier League, Champions League or the Women’s Super League [the only Super League we intend competing in, for the record].
“In addition, we will continue to invest in the youth academy to develop the stars of the future and we would not be in this process if we did not have an exciting and inclusive vision for Chelsea.
“In over 20 years of ownership of the Boston Celtics, we have not once considered changing the name, colours, or logo of the club. This is our guarantee to Chelsea fans.”
Stephen Pagliuca sees similarities between Boston Celtics and Atalanta
Pagliuca’s family moved to the USA from Italy in the 20s. They were from a small village in Basilicata, called Muro Lucano.
“We know how important the geographic area is and we are aware that the support of fans is part of the team’s success. That’s an honour to us. I had a similar feeling when we bought the Celtics in 2003,” he said in March.
“The club is almost like a religion in town and I noticed it as soon as I stepped inside the Gewiss Stadium. It was the same as the Boston Garden or the Fenway Park. The same feeling of affection and love in a stadium of 24,000 seats, with fans who have been supporting the team for 40-50 years.”
Chelsea FC sale: Celtics owner Pagliuca breaks silence with pledge to 'cherish' Blues https://t.co/aU0fIP5pPh
— Sky News (@SkyNews) April 12, 2022