Arsenal considering Usmanov’s debt-reduction strategy

Alisher Usmanov’s latest proposition continues to be explored by English Arsenal board members before a final decision is made.

The club’s second-largest investor recently came forward with a plan to decrease Arsenal’s GBP 400 million debt load in a rights issue, as noted by The Guardian.

The concept, which could potentially bring more transfer funds to manager Arsène Wenger, was heard at a meeting of Arsenal board executives earlier this week.

Arsenal already has 17-year old Jack Wilshere in their corner, after Wenger managed to secure the youngest player in the club’s history on a long-term basis.

With concerns arising about Usmanov’s intentions, the board members will take as much time as necessary to explore the issue, although a decision is expected to be released next week.

It has been suggested that should the plan be adopted, Usmanov could assume more power at the club.

Meanwhile, Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has been informed that his request for a salary cap in the Premier League will be addressed by UEFA in September. Gazidis has been pushing for a wage cap in order to encourage financial stability at the top level, with UEFA confirming that clubs do need to cut down on their spending.

UEFA General Secretary David Taylor indicated that clubs, players and leagues would come together to discuss the issue at the Professional Football Strategy’s meeting next month.