SHOCK AT SALES PITCH

proposed deal has sparked concerns over the future of the home of English football. There are also fears about where showpiece games, like the FA Cup semi-finals and final, will be played. Khan, who hopes to seal a deal in three months, said: “We would strive to be the best possible steward for a venue that is iconic. “Wembley would return to private ownership and the FA would be able to focus on its core mission of developing players.”

Khan admitted he has held discussions with FA chief executive Martin Glenn.

He added: “It’s important to stress that the spirit and essence of Wembley would be unchanged.

“Wembley is a special place, beloved in London and known throughout the world.”

The deal would see Khan pay £500m for the stadium, while the FA will continue to run the Club England hospitality business worth around £300m.

An FA spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that the FA has received an offer to buy Wembley Stadium.”

The bid has been welcomed by the NFL, but a full-time franchise could force England to play away from Wembley during the NFL season.

Khan last night indicated he hopes football’s showpiece events would continue to be held at the stadium.

He said: “I absolutely see that continuing at Wembley. That is part and parcel of the legacy.”

Swansea manager Carlos Carvalhal yesterday spoke out against the plans.

He said: “Wembley is a monument and you cannot sell the monuments in your country.

“If you sell Wembley, what do you do then? Do you sell Buckingham Palace and Big Ben? It’s culture and you cannot sell culture.”

Crystal Palace’s former England boss Roy Hodgson said: “I would be disappointed if that’s the end of England and Wembley, but I don’t believe that will be the case.”