Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has insisted his interest in buying Arsenal is not “overnight stuff” and revealed he has been a fan of the club for more than 30 years, thanks to former Vice Chairman, David Dein.
Dangote, who is the 67th wealthiest person in the world with a fortune of £12 billion, has explained his interest in The Gunners by saying he was first taken to the club’s former Highbury ground by Dein, a close friend and associate.
Dein, a former sugar trader, helped Dangote start his business in 1980.
Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc now accounts for 90 per cent of the product sold in Nigeria.
“I have been a supporter of the teams since the Eighties,” confirmed Dangote after publicly declaring his wish to be the club’s next owner.
“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.”
Using Dein’s name leaves the fascinating prospect of whether the former vice chairman will return to Arsenal if Dangote becomes the club’s new owner.
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