EXCLUSIVE: Malone’s Group and Plethora of Investors still on Everton Takeover despite the Financial Complexities attached as Moshiri gives an eight-week deadline for buyers to complete deal

Everton FC, a storied English Premier League club, has been navigating a tumultuous period marked by financial struggles and ownership uncertainties. Despite these challenges, a plethora of investors have expressed interest in acquiring the club, underscoring its enduring appeal and potential for growth.

Recently, Dan Friedkin, the owner of Roma, emerged as a potential suitor, only to withdraw his bid due to concerns over Everton’s substantial debt obligations. The club’s financial predicament, particularly the £200m owed to 777 Partners, has proven a significant deterrent for Friedkin, who was initially enthused about the prospect of acquiring Everton.

Undeterred by Friedkin’s withdrawal, other investors remain keen on taking the reins at Goodison Park. John Textor, co-owner of Crystal Palace, has reaffirmed his interest in investing in Everton, despite the complexities surrounding the club’s ownership structure. To comply with Premier League regulations, Textor must first divest his stake in Crystal Palace, a process that is currently underway.

Textor’s enthusiasm for Everton is evident, as he has made a formal bid for the club and is exploring innovative financing options to facilitate the acquisition. His plans include an initial public offering (IPO) for his Eagle Football group, which aims to raise £160m. This bold move underscores Textor’s confidence in Everton’s potential and his vision for the club’s future.

In addition to Textor, Kevin Malone, former owner of the LA Dodgers, has also entered the fray, joining forces with a consortium of investors exploring a potential Everton takeover. Malone’s group is carefully considering an offer to buy the club, undaunted by the intricate web of financial and ownership complexities surrounding Everton.

Everton’s current owner, Farhad Moshiri, has set a steep asking price for his shares, seeking up to £50m. While some analysts argue that this valuation exceeds the club’s worth, Moshiri remains resolute in his demands. His determination to secure a lucrative deal has led to an eight-week deadline for a buyer to complete the takeover, a timeline that many consider overly ambitious given the intricacies involved.

Once a preferred bidder is selected, Everton will require ratification from the Premier League, a process that can take several weeks. The club’s debt issues, particularly the £200m owed to 777 Partners, must also be resolved, adding another layer of complexity to the takeover saga.

In conclusion, Everton’s takeover saga continues, with multiple investors vying for control of the club. While the process is fraught with challenges, the interest from Textor, Malone, and others underscores Everton’s enduring appeal and potential for growth. As the situation unfolds, fans and observers alike will be watching with bated breath, eager to see which investor will ultimately emerge victorious and shape the future of this beloved club.