Dan Friedkin may sign Saudi deal after Everton takeover with two deals already done
Today at 01:01 PM
After almost two years of purgatory, it looks as though Everton’s protracted takeover saga is nearing its end – and prospective new owner Dan Friedkin could be set to pull of another big deal.
After periods of exclusive talks with MSP Sports Capital, 777 Partners and – depending on who you ask – Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor, the door is now open for Friedkin to complete a deal for Everton.
The AS Roma had himself pulled out of earlier talks with Everton owner Farhad Moshiri because of legal complications surrounding their debt with 777 Partners.
However, all parties are now confident that situation can be resolved, leaving The Friedkin Group free to agree a deal and begin the process of regulatory ratification.
Friedkin, who owns Italian giants AS Roma, has a good track record and is expected to pass checks from the Premier League and Financial Conduct Authority with ease.
The sports and media investment heavyweight is seen as a highly credible option, although some analysts have suggested that his involvement with Roma could complicate things further down the line.
But if the latest noises from the Stadio Olimpico are to be believed, that problem might soon resolve itself.
- READ MORE: Dan Friedkin to copy one thing from Jim Ratcliffe at Man United once Everton takeover is complete
Dan Friedkin could sell Roma
Friedkin’s relationship with Roma fans has soured in recent weeks and hit a low ebb following his decision to sack club legend Daniele de Rossi as manager.
According to The Athletic, Roma’s recent activity has led some supporters to speculate that Friedkin could be courting investment in the club from Saudi Arabia.
Roma recently signed a front-of-shirt deal with Riyadh Season, as well as recruiting a relatively unknown right-back from the Saudi Pro League.
That has sparked claims that Friedkin wants to sell the club to investors from the Gulf state.
It is only four years since the businessman acquired Roma for £465m, and the club’s relative success on the pitch since then means its value has likely appreciated.
That would bode well for Friedkin’s liquidity and the money he can pump into Everton.
- READ MORE: TalkSPORT presenter tells Sean Dyche to 'stop picking' £30m Everton ace after Leicester draw
What kind of owner will Friedkin be?
Until recently, Friedkin was held in high regard at Roma, where he was seen as an ambitious, progressive force behind the scenes.
Significantly for Everton considering their imminent move to Bramley Moore Dock, he is currently looking to build a new stadium for the three-time Serie A champions.
He therefore is well aware of the slings and arrows associated with moving to a new home ground.
It has even been suggested that he could use his connections with Toyota to secure a naming rights deal for Bramley Moore Dock.
His son, Ryan Friedkin, holds a senior position at Roma and it was previously reported that he could be given a similar role at Everton.
Most importantly, Friedkin will significantly reduce the club’s debt burden, cover the final costs of the move to the new stadium, and cover cash flow needs while they find their feet once again.
The A1 priority, however, is Premier League survival and it remains to be seen what approach the 59-year-old will take to Sean Dyche and Kevin Thelwell.
