Exclusive: West Ham Could Secure Major Deal After Initiating Talks with O’Neal
Sources Tell Football Insider: West Ham Has a “Massive” Opportunity to Boost Revenue After Talks with Shaquille O’Neal
Neil Joyce, CEO of the CLV Group, revealed exclusively to Football Insider that West Ham could leverage Shaquille O’Neal’s substantial global fanbase to enhance their own following if he invests in the club.
According to The Sun on 26 June, the former basketball star is in discussions about acquiring a stake in West Ham and potentially investing a significant amount. O’Neal, 52, was reportedly impressed by the atmosphere at the London Stadium when he attended a match towards the end of last season.
O’Neal’s involvement could introduce West Ham to fans of his former team, the LA Lakers—the most supported NBA franchise—as well as basketball enthusiasts worldwide.
Interest in the Premier League has surged in recent years as it continues to grow its global appeal. US-based celebrities have increasingly invested in British clubs, including LeBron James in Liverpool, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in Wrexham, Tom Brady in Birmingham City, and Will Ferrell in Leeds United.
The CLV Group estimates that European clubs could see up to £860 million in additional revenue ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
West Ham is one of nine Premier League clubs touring the US this summer, with an estimated 36.5 million American football fans still undecided about which European team to support.
Basketball is the most popular sport among many of these fans, positioning West Ham well to capture this market if O’Neal invests in the club.
Joyce also noted potential challenges, such as the lack of a roof at the London Stadium. However, he mentioned the possibility of hosting basketball games at the stadium with O’Neal’s connections.
Shares in West Ham are available, as Vanessa Gold, daughter of former joint-chair David Gold, put a 10-percent stake up for sale last October. David Sullivan holds a 38.8-percent share, Daniel Kretinsky owns 27 percent, Gold’s stake is 25.1 percent, and Albert “Tripp” Smith retains an eight-percent share.
