West Ham United have attracted a takeover approach.
The Guardian says the Hammers were yesterday the subject of a takeover approach by Dubai's sovereign-wealth fund Zabeel Investments. The same company, controlled by Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, declared its interest in Charlton Athletic last Friday in the form of an "indicative bid". But yesterday's approach was far more discreetly conducted.
Club sources confirm that contact was made but insist there are "no talks" after the owner, Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson, rejected the offer.
However, it is believed that talks are continuing with Gudmundsson on a personal level as he faces increased pressure to cash in on his £85m investment. Dubai's bid is serious and Amanda Staveley, the dealmaker who introduced the Abu Dhabi United Group to Manchester City, is understood to be in the Emirate to talk through the potential purchase.
There have been two approaches for West Ham from the Gulf and another from China in recent days, but Dubai's appears to be the most likely to succeed. If it does, Premier League ownership rules will forbid Zabeel's takeover of Charlton.