GoalSir, September 23 – Everton Football Club has officially announced that The Friedkin Group, which also owns Italian Serie A club Roma, has reached an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Everton from Blue Heaven Holdings. The transaction is subject to approval from regulatory authorities including the Premier League, The Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
A spokesperson for The Friedkin Group stated: “We are delighted to have completed the agreement and to become the custodians of Everton Football Club. We will focus on obtaining the necessary approvals to complete the final transaction. The Friedkin Group is committed to providing stability to the club and working with Everton to drive forward its future vision, including the construction of the new Everton stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.”
Previously, Everton’s majority shareholder had agreed to sell a stake in the club to US investment firm 777 Partners. However, on May 31, the exclusivity period for 777 Partners expired without a formal agreement being reached, and the deal ultimately fell through.
Texas billionaire Dan Friedkin, who also owns Roma, had previously come close to acquiring Everton a few months ago, but The Friedkin Group withdrew due to concerns about the club’s loan issues with other investors.
However, in recent days, the deal has been quickly restarted and an agreement has been swiftly reached. According to Sky Sports, The Friedkin Group will invest between £400 million and £500 million in Everton upon successful acquisition.
Everton, founded in 1878, is a venerable team in English football. They were a founding member of the English Football League in 1888 and hold the record for 121 appearances in the top tier of English football, missing only four seasons (1930/31, 1951/52, 1952/53, 1953/54). In the rankings of consecutive seasons in the top tier of English football, Everton is second with 70 appearances, and they rank third in the overall points table of the top tier of English football. Historically, Everton has won the league title nine times and the FA Cup five times.
Since the start of this season, Everton has struggled with a record of one draw and four losses, placing them second from bottom in the league.