Allianz keen to add Chelsea’s new ground to their ‘family of stadiums’ in long-term deal

Allianz are interested in a long-term sponsorship deal to bring Chelsea’s new ground, wherever it materialises, into their ‘family of stadiums’.

The German insurance company were in talks to take over as Chelsea’s shirt sponsors from next season, now the club’s deal with Three has expired.

But it seems online casino Stake will fill that slot, to the fury of fans: 77 per cent of supporters in a recent poll oppose that move, due to general discomfort at having a gambling sponsor.

As this newspaper revealed in January, Stake’s British website is powered by Isle of Man firm TGP, who have been controlled in the past by a Chinese billionaire, Alvin Chau, who has links to criminal Triad gangs. 

He was jailed earlier this year for 18 years after being found guilty of more than 100 charges relating to organised crime and illegal gambling, and TGP’s command structure remains opaque. 

The German insurance company already sponsor Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena

OGC Nice’s stadium is also sponsored by Allianz, who could add Chelsea to their family

While Allianz were looking at a shirt or sleeve deal, Chelsea were also sounded out about a potential stadium naming deal once the future of their home is confirmed.

Allianz are seriously considering a ‘major’ and ‘long-term’ partnership with Chelsea, sources say. 

Allianz spokespeople declined to comment on the talks, but the company have signed naming rights deals with seven stadiums, in Munich, Sydney, Minnesota, Nice, Vienna, Turin and Sao Paulo.

Notable gaps in the ‘family’ include England and Spain. The ‘Allianz Bridge’ would fill one!