The Toffees’ Turbulent Summer: A New Bid Emerges Amidst Uncertainty
The Everton Football Club has endured a summer of uncertainty, marked by rampant speculation and a series of failed takeover attempts. Despite staving off relegation under Sean Dyche’s leadership last season, the club’s backroom situation remains shrouded in uncertainty.
American firm 777 Partners initially emerged as frontrunners to purchase Farhad Moshiri’s 94.1% stake in the Merseyside club, but talks collapsed after they failed to meet an already extended deadline last month. Next, Dan Friedkin, owner and CEO of The Friedkin Group, entered into an exclusivity period with Moshiri before talks broke down, prompting the club to explore alternative options.
Now, a consortium led by former LA Dodgers general manager Kevin Malone is set to make a new bid for Everton in the coming weeks. Malone’s group, backed by American investment firms, was one of several rival bidders last month. The consortium’s bid is expected to revive hopes of a takeover, which had been dwindling following the collapse of previous talks.
A consortium lead by Kevin Malone will reportedly be making a new bid for Everton
Malone’s background is in baseball, having served as general manager of the Dodgers for three years. His consortium’s bid is expected to be a significant development in the club’s search for a new owner.
In addition to Malone’s consortium, London-based private equity group Vici Private Finance has also reentered the race to purchase the club. Vici’s interest could prove a huge boost to Everton, with the group advised by former Toffees board member Keith Harris and backed by at least two billionaires.
Dan Friedkin (pictured), who also owns Roma, had entered into an exclusivity agreement with Everton’s majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri but talks broke down
Despite the uncertain nature of the club’s ownership, Dyche has set about improving the side that finished 15th in the Premier League last season. Former Sheffield United midfielder Iliman Ndiaye has arrived from Marseille in a deal reported to be worth £15m, while 21-year-old prospect Tim Iroegbunam joined from Aston Villa.