John Textor, the American businessman, is seeking approval from the Premier League to purchase a majority share in Everton Football Club. However, there is a twist – Textor currently holds a 43% stake in Crystal Palace, another Premier League club, and league rules prohibit individuals from having an interest in two clubs simultaneously.
Textor has reached out to the Premier League to outline his plans and request an extension of time to sell his stake in Crystal Palace. He hopes to be granted a grace period, during which he would not be involved in Palace affairs, allowing him to focus on completing the Everton deal.
The situation is urgent, as Everton needs to find a new owner soon to avoid financial difficulties. Player sales may be unavoidable if a deal is not struck quickly, and the club’s development, including the construction of the new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium, could be impacted.
Textor’s interest in Everton is not new, but the current rules have hindered his ability to pursue a deal. With the collapse of the 777 Partners’ bid, Textor has emerged as the leading candidate to purchase the club from Farhad Moshiri.
The Premier League’s decision will be crucial in the coming weeks. If they grant Textor a grace period, it would be the first time under the current guidelines that two Premier League clubs have shared the same investor. This could set a precedent for future investments and potentially impact the fortunes of both Everton and Crystal Palace.
Moshiri is eager to sell, and Textor is willing to take a hit on his Crystal Palace shares to accelerate the process. The next move belongs to the Premier League, and their decision will have significant implications for the future of both clubs.
In the meantime, Everton fans are anxiously waiting for a resolution to the takeover saga. The club’s financial situation is precarious, and the uncertainty surrounding the ownership has created a sense of unease among supporters.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that John Textor’s bid for Everton is not without its challenges. However, his willingness to navigate the complex rules and regulations suggests that he is serious about acquiring the club. The Premier League’s decision will be a crucial factor in determining the future of Everton Football Club.