Amina UmarThe ownership of Everton Football Club is up for grabs, and several suitors are vying for control. After the expiration of the exclusivity agreement between 777 Partners and Farhad Moshiri, the club is now open to new bids. Here’s a ranking of the nine contenders, from least to most likely:
1. 777 Partners: Despite their previous agreement, 777 Partners’ financial and legal issues make them an unlikely candidate.
2. A-Cap: As a major lender to 777 Partners, A-Cap’s involvement raises concerns about their ability to manage the club’s debt.
3. John Textor: The co-owner of Crystal Palace has doubts about Moshiri’s negotiation style, making a takeover unlikely.
4. Qatari group: Although the Qatar Investment Authority has been contacted, their interest seems improbable due to state ownership scrutiny and associate party transaction concerns.
5. Dan Friedkin: The AS Roma owner’s bid is hindered by UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules and criticism from Jose Mourinho.
6. Vatche Manoukian: The London-based entrepreneur’s £400m all-equity bid, backed by Saudi and US financiers, is a genuine option.
7. MSP Sports Capital: With an existing loan and football experience, MSP could take a controlling stake or act as interim owners.
8. Michael Dell: Although not directly bidding, the billionaire is lending funds to Andy Bell and George Downing’s takeover campaign.
9. Bell-Downing consortium: As Evertonians with business acumen and Michael Dell’s backing, this bid is the most popular among fans and appears the most likely to succeed.
Each contender has pros and cons, but the Bell-Downing consortium seems the most appealing due to their understanding of the club’s culture and heritage, combined with their business expertise and financial backing.
Sport nation