Pompey takeover given green light

Dubai-based businessman Sulaiman Al Fahim was today given the green light to complete his takeover of Portsmouth after passing the Premier League’s stringent fit and proper persons test.

Al Fahim struck a deal to buy the Fratton Park club from current owner Alexandre Gaydamak in late May before entering a period of legal and financial due diligence.

The Premier League confirmed today that Al Fahim had been cleared to complete his purchase of the club.

An official statement said: “The Premier League can confirm that Mr Al Fahim has submitted all the documentation required to satisfy our fit and proper persons test.

“Based on the information provided the League has found no reason why Mr Al Fahim would be liable to be disqualified as a director of a Premier League club.

“Accordingly we have advised Portsmouth FC that his appointment may proceed. As with all changes in club ownership the Premier League will continue to monitor any material changes in circumstance.”

Al Fahim was the initial figurehead of the Abu Dhabi United Group when they took control of Manchester City in the summer of 2008.

He is no longer involved but did not drop his interest in the Premier League.

In January, Al Fahim he was linked with a bold move for Chelsea, who are owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, before agreeing to buy out Portsmouth.

Gaydamak had announced last December he was looking for a buyer because he was unable to devote sufficient time to the club.