Despite ongoing internal challenges at Everton, numerous investors remain eager to take over the historic club.
Fans might have feared the worst when Dan Friedkin withdrew from negotiations after being named Farhad Moshiri’s preferred bidder. The Roma owner was reportedly discouraged by his advisors after learning the full extent of Everton’s financial issues.
A key concern is the £200 million that Everton owes to the Miami-based investment group 777 Partners, who lent the money as part of their own takeover bid earlier this year.
There are various legal complications surrounding this debt, and although Everton is not directly involved, Friedkin is believed to have deemed the situation too risky.
However, several investors still appear to be interested in the club.
In the past 24 hours, two significant updates have emerged regarding potential bidders Moshiri might consider next.
Kevin Malon updates Everton takeover stance; John Textor latest
Earlier this summer, reports indicated that Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor was interested in investing in Everton.
A major obstacle for Textor is the Premier League’s conflict of interest rules, which would require him to divest his stake in Crystal Palace first.
According to The Guardian, Textor is actively negotiating to sell his stake in Palace and has already rejected three offers as he seeks a significant return on his investment.
Confident in his prospects, Textor has submitted a formal bid for Everton, potentially adding the club to his growing football empire.
As reported by Brazilian media, Textor is also preparing for an IPO with the goal of eventually listing his Eagle Football group on the New York Stock Exchange, aiming to raise £160 million.
Meanwhile, as shared by GiveMeSport journalist Ben Jacobs on X, former LA Dodgers executive Kevin Malon remains interested in an Everton takeover and is part of a consortium considering an offer.
TBR Analysis: When will Everton takeover be finalized?
Beyond the debt issues, one of the biggest obstacles to a takeover is Moshiri’s asking price of up to £50 million for his Everton shares.
While there is some debate about whether the club’s debt outweighs the value of Moshiri’s equity, few analysts would argue that his shares are worth that much.
Moshiri has reportedly set an eight-week deadline for a buyer to complete the takeover, but given the complexity of the situation, this timeline is seen as highly unrealistic.
Even after a preferred bidder is chosen and the 777 Partners’ issue is resolved, the Premier League’s approval will be required, a process that could take considerable time, as seen with 777’s initial attempt to buy the club.
