Fulham not for sale, says Al Fayed

MOHAMED AL FAYED has “no desire to sell Fulham”, despite reports a consortium of Turkish businessmen are ready to launch a £35million takeover bid.

A group of Turkish investors have been photographed in London, fuelling speculation Al Fayed was ready to relinquish his controlling interest of the Barclays Premiership club.

However, while Al Fayed’s media advisor Jack Irvine admitted a meeting had taken place with the Egyptian’s representatives, he maintained it was purely an act of courtesy which is extended to any parties interested in making an investment.

“I can categorically state that Fulham FC is not for sale. The Turkish businessmen mentioned in this morning’s story did not meet Mr Mohamed Al Fayed,” maintained Irvine.

“I can confirm that Mr Al Fayed’s advisers met with the Turkish gentlemen, but that is because Mr Al Fayed would always extend that courtesy to anyone who expresses an interest in investing in the club.

“Once again I repeat that Mr Al Fayed has no desire to sell Fulham FC and no meeting took place as suggested.”

Al Fayed has personally bankrolled the west London outfit to the tune of £100 million since taking a controlling interest during May 1997.

The Cottagers have subsequently climbed from the old Second Division back into the top flight and have also now returned to their traditional Craven Cottage home following a period as tenants with QPR at Loftus Road.

However, Fulham’s buying power has dipped dramatically in the last two years.