Microsoft founder denies interest in Southampton

Hopes were raised in Southampton when news spread that Paul Allen" one of the original Microsoft founders " was interested in the English football club. But, denial of rumours on the U.S. side of the ocean may put a damper on things.

Company spokesman Michael Nank said there is no deal pending to take control of the club.

"To the best of my knowledge there is no truth in the rumours,'' Nank said. "I am not aware that Mr. Allen has any interest in purchasing Southampton Football Club. At the moment I am making inquiries into where the rumours came from.''

Allen is listed as the 19th richest person in the world, with a personal fortune of more than GBP10 billion. He owns the NBA Portland Trailblazers basketball team and the NFL Seattle Seahawks.

Rumours spread that Allen was the one linked to a potential takeover of the club. Southampton has been searching for investors since Michael Wilde replaced Rupert Lowe as chairman last summer.

A statement released by the club to the Stock Exchange read: "The board note the recent rise in the company's share price and confirm we have received and are considering a preliminary approach which may or may not lead to an offer being made for the company. The board's consideration is at an early stage and there is no guarantee that any offer will be forthcoming."

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.