LONDON - Aston Villa has received a "preliminary approach" which could lead to a takeover of the Premier English soccer league club.
In a statement to the London Stock Exchange, the club's directors said the approach was made by Michael Neville.
Weekend media reports said Neville, said to be a lifelong Villa fan, was acting for Irish-born brothers Luke and Brian Cromer who made millions in property.
"The board have not met with any other members of the consortium group nor received any confirmation of the availability of sufficient funding to support any potential offer and so they can only treat the approach as speculative at this stage," the statement said.
Aston Villa is controlled by chairman Doug Ellis who has faced steady criticism from fans upset at the club's poor performance in recent seasons.
The Midlands side, traditionally one of English soccer's big guns, are currently 16th in the 20-strong Premier League.
- REUTERS
Soccer: Aston Villa receive investor approach
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