Everton has experienced a turbulent summer, marked by extensive speculation and uncertainty regarding its ownership.
Former LA Dodgers general manager Kevin Malone is now reportedly leading a consortium to make a fresh bid for the club in the coming weeks. This comes after previous discussions with the Friedkin Group fell apart.
Last season, Everton managed to avoid relegation under Sean Dyche’s management, but the club’s backroom dealings have been the subject of intense scrutiny. Initially, American firm 777 Partners seemed poised to acquire Farhad Moshiri’s 94.1% stake in the club, but talks collapsed when they missed an extended deadline.
Subsequently, Dan Friedkin, owner and CEO of The Friedkin Group and Serie A club Roma, entered into an exclusivity period with Moshiri. However, these negotiations also failed, leading Everton to announce they would seek alternative options. The financial uncertainty has raised fears of potential administration, but hopes have been rekindled with Malone’s consortium planning a new bid.
Sky Sports’ Alan Myers reported that Malone’s group, backed by American investment firms, was among several interested parties before Friedkin’s exclusivity deal. Malone, known for his tenure with the Dodgers, is now re-entering the race to acquire Everton.
London-based private equity firm Vici Private Finance, previously linked with a potential purchase, has also reportedly renewed its interest. Vici is advised by former Everton board member Keith Harris and backed by multiple billionaires. Harris has a notable track record in facilitating football club takeovers, including Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Fulham.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the club’s ownership, Dyche is focusing on strengthening the squad that finished 15th in the Premier League last season.
Everton has signed former Sheffield United midfielder Iliman Ndiaye from Marseille for £15 million and 21-year-old Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa.
