An naming rights option has been signed for USM Holdings, owned by Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, for Everton's new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium.
Usmanov was the second largest shareholder at Arsenal from 2007 to 2018, when he sold his share to Stan Kroenke, making the American the sole shareholder at the Emirates Stadium.
But, Everton have also been of interest to Usmanov, since his company USM Holdings have sponsored the Toffees' training ground from 2017. An extension to the deal in the summer has seen the company become more involved with the club, becoming Everton's Official Matchday Presenting Partner, with the MegaFon logo appearing around Goodison Park and on the sleeve of the players' training kits.
Now the involvement looks to increase even more. As reported by the Liverpool Echo , it has been announced that USM have signed an option for Everton's new stadium.
Earlier in the month, the Russian hinted at the news.
"Yes. With great pleasure, if he asks," he told the Financial Times , when asked if he would like to join chairman Farhad Moshiri at Everton. "I am thinking about my investment in this club...I cannot reject Arsenal.
"I will not leave them as a fan. But if I join Everton, then I will wear an Everton shirt, because I am a professional.
"They are going to build a new stadium. Why not the USM Arena?
"It is not obligatory for me to participate myself. I could just sponsor them."
Usmanov sold his share of Arsenal for £550m.
