Southampton takeover talks denied

Wang Jianlin, the richest man in China has denied making a move to take over Premier league club Southampton. Jianlin, the owner of Wanda Group has come out and rubbished claims that he is set to launch £175m takeover of the south coast outfit.

This is the second time that the group has been linked with a takeover having previously linked with Serie A club Roma.


In a statement, the Group, said:


"Recently it was brought to Dalian Wanda Group's attention by a Sunday Mirror's report about Wanda’s acquisition of Southampton Football Club.


"We hereby clarify that: No individual from Wanda Group has ever been in contact with Southampton Football Club, nor has any individual or third party organization been appointed on behalf of the Wanda Group to engage in contact with Southampton regarding any matters related to the acquisition of Southampton football club.


"The Sunday Mirror's report is purely imaginary and completely inconsistent with the actual facts."


The Group have been sponsors of the Chinese super League since 2011.