Aliko Dangote, the richest man in Africa, is almost ready to purchase Valenciennes of the French Ligue 2.Entreprendre, a French news source, reports that the business tycoon and CEO of the Dangote Group is prepared to buy 60% of the club.

The Dangote Group is the largest industrial conglomerate in Africa.

The Nigerian businessman was interested in buying Premier League club, Arsenal in the past but failed to achieve his objective.

Valenciennes was formed in 1913 and plays its home matches at the recently built Stade du Hainaut.

The club have played 40 seasons in Ligue 1 and 36 seasons in Ligue 2.

The Athenians have never won the Ligue 1 title but have claimed the Ligue 2 title on two occasions.

Valenciennes have also played in the French Cup final once.

They currently occupy 15th position on the Ligue 2 table.