Chelsea legend John Terry will join the True Blues consortium in their attempt to buy a 10 per cent stake in the Stamford Bridge club.
The 41-year-old said his involvement came with the goal of “building the best football club in the world” and establishing a “fan connection” with Chelsea, who remain up for sale after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government.
The True Blues group is comprised of ex-players, including Terry, as well as entrepreneurs and fans, and its plans have been backed in principle by both the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust and Chelsea Pitch Owners.
The consortium has made contact with Raine Group, the bank overseeing the sale of the club, in the hope of becoming involved alongside new owners, electing one representative to sit on the board.
Revealing his support for the True Blues on Twitter, Terry wrote: “Chelsea has been such an important part of my life for 22 years.
“I want to see the club’s heritage protected as we go into a new era, with like-minded people who have the same long-term vision of building the best football club in the world and [who] understand how important our DNA is.
“Having met with and heard what the True Blues consortium is about, I know they understand.
“They’re a group of lifelong season ticket holders who have created a concept that will complement and assist any preferred bidder running the club, while adding fan connection and engagement with the board.
“This innovative structure is designed to be inclusive of all Chelsea fans and protect our club.
“I’m thankful for the Chelsea Pitch Owners and Chelsea Supporters’ Trust’s time and support on this, and we hope we will be welcomed investors into the club’s new structure.”
Four bids for Chelsea were confirmed before Friday’s deadline.