League gets embroiled in Fulham saga
Two weeks ago, Fulham chairman Mohamed Al Fayed and Chelsea chief Ken Bates discussed the possibility of the Harrods supremo buying into Chelsea Village in return for a deal allowing the Cottagers to play at Stamford Bridge.
And yesterday Fulham announced Al Fayed had snubbed an offer to purchase 9.9% of Chelsea for £15 million, in return for a 25-year ground-sharing deal with further profit-linked payments.
But the Blues responded angrily, claiming the gesture was a ‘‘private, neighbourly act’’ - and that the Premier League suggested the idea to them in the first place.
Chelsea officials are unhappy with their west London rivals for disclosing details of the Al Fayed-Bates talks, which they say were actually proposed by league bosses at Connaught Place.
A Blues spokesman said: ‘‘We were basically responding to suggestions from the Premier League. However, league sources say they did not start the discussions - and emphasised that their blessing would be needed if Al Fayed made a U-turn and did opt to invest in a second club.
A Premier League spokesman told PA Sport: ‘‘Up until now, this has strictly been a matter between the two clubs.
‘‘And if they want to do this, they would have to seek permission from the Premier League.’’
Al Fayed is now reported to be considering a plan to share at Stamford Bridge just for next season - although it remains to be seen if the public slanging match affects his relationship with Bates.
Fulham are fighting a two-pronged legal battle with local residents opposing the £70m redevelopment of Craven Cottage.
The Stamford Bridge issue is the latest off-field problem for Fulham boss Tigana, whose side take on Dinamo Zagreb in the UEFA Cup at their temporary Loftus Road home tonight.
The Cottagers have tumbled to four league reverses on the bounce, losing to West Ham, Southampton, Arsenal and Aston Villa.
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