Al Fahim hits back at reports

Sulaiman Al Fahim’s spokesman Ivo Ilic Gabara says the property tycoon has been disappointed with “misleading” reports surrounding his takeover of Portsmouth.

Certain media sources have stated the Arab billionaire’s buyout of Pompey is set to collapse amid fears over the Premier League’s fair and proper persons test.

Others have pointed to the fact Al Fahim played a prominent role in the takeover of Manchester City last August but it has been confirmed that the 32-year-old does not sit on the Eastlands board.

Gabara says the takeover at Fratton Park is still on course with Al Fahim still expected to meet with Pompey supporters at an AGM in London on July 11.

“Sulaiman knew the acquisition of a Premier League club would attract significant media attention and was ready to meet that,” he told The News.

“But he is somewhat disappointed in some of the reporting, which has been consistently misleading.

“We have tried to be on record and brief as many people as possible. We have tried to be helpful by clarifying our position.

“We are doing everything we can to inform the public and, in particular, Portsmouth Football Club supporters. But unfortunately there are still a lot of misleading stories about.

“We are trying to share as much as we possibly can – but it comes to this. The offer was made and the memorandum was signed and the next stage was due diligence.

“The process is exactly according to what we anticipated. Both parties are very committed to this and working in a co-operative way.

“The timing has always been for the very beginning of July and we are still looking at that.”

Gabara has urged Pompey fans to remain patient as a period of due diligence is undertaken.

“Due diligence is a complex process, it cannot be possibly conducted any quicker,” he added.

“We have lawyers and accountants checking out the finances of the club, the fiscal situation, debts and the situation of every single player. It takes time.

“I think both sides are happy and want it completed as soon as possible. It is very much on track – as anticipated.”