Aliko Dangote has revealed how he became a fan of Arsenal, thanks to former vice-chairman David Dein, who introduced him to the Premier League club over 30 years ago.
Africa’s richest man, who is ranked the 67th wealthiest person in the world, has reiterated his interest in buying the London team and has revealed how his affection for the Gunners started.
“I have been a supporter of the team since the Eighties,” the Nigerian business magnate stated.
“My love for Arsenal dates back to when I went to watch them play with the-then largest shareholder David Dein. I developed a likeness for the team and I have been a supporter of the team since then. So it is not overnight stuff.”
There is now talk of Dein returning, if Dangote who is worth £12billion, succeeds in taking over Arsenal.
Dein, who is a very close friend of current manager Arsene Wenger, left the board in 2007, when other members decided to sell to American Stan Kroenke rather than his partner Alisher Usmanov.
67-year-old Kroenke is now the majority shareholder at the club with 67% share.
Dangote is not bothered about his colour or background and insists they won’t hinder anything.
“What I always say is that money doesn’t have colour. It doesn’t matter whether you are from Africa or anywhere in the world. The colour of money is the same. Once I put money on the table, they will not think if I am an African,” he added. .
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