Premiership chairman Ian Ritchie says allowing a takeover of English rugby's top tier is "not the preferred option", but he admitted the cash-strapped league is looking for investment. Former Formula One owners CVC Capital Partners are believed to have expressed interest in buying a £275 million ($352 million, 309 million euros) controlling stake in the Premiership.
England's leading clubs are struggling financially, with Worcester losing £8 million and Harlequins £6 million in the past accounting year, while Exeter were the only Premiership club to make a profit.
Against that uncertain backdrop, Premiership Rugby voted unanimously on Tuesday to listen to all new investment offers and chief executive Mark McCafferty expects quick movement on a potential deal.
But England's top teams do not want to sell on a majority stake in the Premiership and will attempt to retain overall control of the product.
"We had a very positive board discussion and considered a range of alternatives to accelerate investment in the club game," Premiership Rugby chairman Ritchie said.
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