The proposed takeover of Everton FC by US businessman Daniel Friedkin has fallen through.
On June 21, Everton announced that it had granted a period of exclusivity to Friedkin, who also owns Italian Serie A club AS Roma. This followed the collapse of a previous bid from 777 Partners, who failed to secure the necessary funds to buy out 94.1% owner Farhad Moshiri in a deal reportedly worth around £500m.
At the time, Everton stated: “Blue Heaven Holdings (Moshiri’s vehicle) has received significant interest from several highly respected parties interested in investing in the club. The club can confirm today that a period of exclusivity has been granted to The Friedkin Group to advance discussions to acquire a majority shareholding in Everton.”
Progress seemed promising, with Friedkin reportedly paying around £200m to settle the club’s existing loans and to ensure the new £760m stadium’s completion by the December 2024 deadline.
However, Everton issued a new statement today: “Following a period of exclusivity, discussions between Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group regarding the potential sale of a majority stake in Everton have ended. The Friedkin Group will not be proceeding with the purchase of the club.”
The statement continued: “Both Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group engaged in discussions in good faith to explore a potential sale. These discussions have concluded, and both parties agree it is in their best interests for Everton to seek alternative options. The Friedkin Group will remain a lender to the club and is proud to have contributed to the new stadium’s development, which will support Everton’s and Liverpool’s future.”
Everton maintains a positive relationship with The Friedkin Group and appreciates their efforts throughout the process. The ties between the club and Friedkin’s AS Roma were highlighted when Everton recently announced a high-profile home friendly against Roma on August 10, a week before the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season and the club’s final season at Goodison Park.
