Everton Football Club has announced a significant development as they confirm a new agreement has been reached for a takeover. Majority owner Farhad Moshiri has struck a deal to sell his 94% stake in the club to the Friedkin Group, an American firm led by billionaire Dan Friedkin.
The Friedkin Group had previously expressed interest in acquiring the club but stepped back in July. However, they returned to negotiations last week, ultimately securing an agreement with Moshiri. Now, the group will seek approval from the Premier League, the FA, and the Financial Conduct Authority, which is expected to go smoothly.
An official statement from Everton read: “Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group confirm that they have reached an agreement over the terms of the sale of Blue Heaven Holdings’ majority stake in Everton Football Club. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval, including from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.”
A spokesperson for The Friedkin Group expressed their excitement: “We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club. We are focused on securing the necessary approvals to complete the transaction. We look forward to providing stability to the club and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.”
The Friedkin Group also owns the Italian club AS Roma and will join a growing list of American owners in the Premier League. Other clubs with American ownership include Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Aston Villa.
As the Merseyside derby approaches, Liverpool will face Everton at Goodison Park on December 7.