Conference group entrepreneur and Kingston homeowner Marcus Evans has agreed a £44million deal to buy Ipswich Town Football Club.
For an 87.4 per cent stake, his deal clears the club's debts and puts £12million into the team-building kitty.
Mr Evans, who has homes in Kingston and Chelsea, made his money through the Marcus Evans Group, which runs hospitality at major sporting events, other events, conferences, summits and exhibitions across the globe.
In a statement, he said: "I am delighted to be able to support the club of which I have long been an admirer. I believe Ipswich Town has great potential to build upon its rich footballing heritage."
Less than a year ago, Mr Evans tried to buy the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and The People newspapers for £600million.
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