US investors the Friedkin Group have entered a period of exclusivity as they aim to purchase a majority stake in Everton.
American businessman Dan Friedkin is chairman of the group which also owns Serie A giants Roma. Friedkin, originally from San Diego and he now lives in Houston, Texas, is said to be worth over $6 billion.
If the deal is confirmed it will mean nine of the Premier League’s 20 clubs for the 2024-25 season will be owned (majority or minority stakes) by Americans.
Everton statement
“Everton Football Club would like to provide fans and stakeholders with an update regarding new investment into the Club. Blue Heaven Holdings has received significant interest from several highly respected parties interested in investing in the Club.
“The Club can confirm today (21 June) that a period of exclusivity has been granted to The Friedkin Group to progress discussions to acquire a majority shareholding in Everton. All parties will now work together to conclude this process. In the meantime, the Club will continue to operate as normal. When there is further news to share, it will be provided via the Club’s official communication channels.”
Where does this leave Everton?
Everton were deducted eight points during the 2023-24 Premier League season due to two separate breaches of the league’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSRs) but still survived relegation as Sean Dyche did a fine job to steady the ship amid severe financial challenges.
With more PSR deadlines on the horizon as Everton try to get their finances in check, everyone involved at the club will be hoping this deal goes through quickly and smoothly after seeing 777 Partners’ takeover collapse after nine months of waiting.
It has been widely reported that Everton also have $200 million worth of loans to pay back to American firm MSP, who are also trying to buy the club outright. All of this is going on while the club are set to move into their new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock in the summer of 2025.