Usmanov wants answers over Arsenal board shuffle

Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov wants a number of questions answered over the boardroom upheaval at Arsenal following the exit of Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith.

Usmanov, a major shareholder with the Emirates club, has also denied he is set to increase his 24% stake by purchasing Lady Bracewell-Smith’s holding of just under 16%.

Usmanov has expressed his disquiet and is now awaiting answers from his London-based partner Farhad Moshiri who is ascertaining the reason behind the “sharp changes” at the club.

Usmanov told The Guardian: “What has happened in the last year poses questions.

“Mr Moshiri is now in London and is trying to find out the reasons for these sharp changes and according to what explanation we get, we will decide our strategy.”

Despite concerns, the Uzbek metals magnate denies he is about to buy Lady Bracewell-Smith’s stake.

“I have not held any negotiations with her about a purchase.

“I haven’t seen her and so far she has not announced that she wants to sell.

“There is no point in discussing something that doesn’t exist.”