New twist in Chelsea bidding war as billionaire Gilbert joins Ricketts family

The race to buy Chelsea has taken another twist after it emerged that the Ricketts family have been joined in their bid by the Rock Entertainment Group, headed by Dan Gilbert who is worth an estimated $31bn (£23.5bn). REG owns the NBA basketball team, the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Related: Chelsea fans deliver vote of no-confidence in Ricketts’ takeover bid

The level of Gilbert’s investment has not been disclosed and there is no clarity over who will be Chelsea’s majority shareholder if this consortium sees off the other three bidders. The Ricketts family had already partnered with the billionaire hedge fund tycoon, Ken Griffin, who is yet to disclose if he would take a controlling stake.

The confusion arose following suggestions in America that the Ricketts family would not have a controlling stake in the club, raising further questions about their controversial bid for Chelsea. In a statement released on Sunday, the Ricketts family moved to reassure supporters.

“Over the past fortnight, the Ricketts family has met with several Chelsea supporter groups and carefully listened to all their feedback,” the statement said. “As we enter the next phase of the process, we are sharing a list of specific commitments that give fans a pivotal role in protecting Chelsea’s heritage and building for future success.”

In a numbered list that followed, the Ricketts family
 pledged to:

Make no change to the club’s name, badge and crest, or Chelsea blue, without the consent of supporters

Never participate in a European Super League and always protect the integrity and heritage of Chelsea FC

Commit the resources necessary across all levels of the club to continue winning trophies, including investing in the first team, experienced football