A leading English Football club of Britain has expressed interest in purchasing one of the two IPL cricket franchises for $225 million prior to the third IPL season, which begins in India on March 12.

While talking to reports, Modi said that he was making discussions with the Marylebone Cricket Club who were also desperate to become a part of IPL.

"There is a football club, a very famous football club in the UK, very interested in bidding," Modi stated. "[They are] probably one of the most famous football clubs - that's all I can say. Probably top three. They are interested in taking a stake."

According to reports, Liverpool and Arsenal's long-standing ownership uncertain, Manchester City would be dearies to move ahead. Their Gulf-based possessors have the financial strength, but a club official Monday night refused suggestions Modi was referring to them.

The Abu Dhabi Cricket Association had recently signed a contract with the MCC, who have also been neared about fronting an offer for an IPL franchise.

The IPL will add up two more groups from the coming year and will auction the franchise rights at a base price of $225 million previous to the third season, and will call prospective investors this week.