Jeremy Corbyn, Leader of the Labour Party, in response to the proposed full takeover of Arsenal Football Club, said:

“It’s a real shame that this sale will bring to an end the longstanding official role of Arsenal supporters in the running of the club.

“I back the Arsenal Supporters Trust’s opposition to this takeover which is sadly an all too familiar story in today’s Premier League.”

Rosena Allin-Khan MP, Labour’s Shadow Sports Minister, said:

“The sale of any football club – particularly one of the size and stature of Arsenal Football Club, must take fans into consideration. Whilst the fans may only have a small shareholding in the club, without the fans there would be no club at all so their voices must be heard.

“It is concerning that if this deal goes ahead there could be no Independent Directors on the Arsenal board, and so we appeal to Stan Kroenke to ensure that fans will have a say in how the club operates going forward.

“The financial viability of the deal must also be carefully examined, especially if the club will be purchased via a loan. We cannot have a football club used as collateral against an owner’s other business interests and we urge the Premier League to thoroughly examine this deal.”