Browns owner Randy Lerner says team approached by investor, negotiations under way

CLEVELAND - Browns owner Randy Lerner sent a statement to the media Friday about a possible “investment" in the team.

Lerner did not specify if it was a sale, but such rumors have persisted.

Here is his full statement:

"In connection with current rumors and press inquiries, I can report that I've been approached by Mr. Jimmy Haslam, who is interested in making an investment in the Cleveland Browns.  We are currently in negotiations and both sides have agreed to keep that dialogue and its details private. Given that any transaction would require League approval, care has been taken so that this process will not be disruptive to the organization, in particular the football team, as it prepares for the upcoming season. We will share further details or make an announcement if it becomes necessary."

So, who is Haslam? Here’s what we found out:

- Jimmy Haslam is the current CEO of Pilot, the chain of convenience stores and travel centers in U.S. and Canada. He also owns a minority stake in the Pittsburgh Steelers.

- Jimmy's father, Jim Haslam, is the founder of Pilot.

- Jimmy's brother, Bill Haslam, is the governor of Tennessee and the Tennessee State Chairman of Romney's presidential campaign.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson's office issued this statement Friday:

"The Cleveland Browns have some of the most loyal and passionate fans which have helped make it one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world. The city took precautionary measures to ensure that fans would be able to cheer on the Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium for years to come.

"The 30-year lease to the Cleveland Browns commenced in 1999 and continues to 2029. This lease, like the prior Municipal Stadium lease for which the City of Cleveland successfully obtained an injunction in 1995, requires the Browns to play all their regular season and playoff home games in the Cleveland Browns Stadium. If this requirement is not honored the city has legal options that could be pursued if necessary."

The only previous record NewsChannel5 could find with regard to Lerner's statement about the team was in 2008, when he said he was not selling the team.

Keep checking newsnet5.com for more information.