Friedkin Group in exclusive talks to buy Everton

The Friedkin Group is in exclusive talks to buy Everton, the Premier League football club said on Friday, weeks after a takeover agreement with prospective owner 777 Partners expired.

The Friedkin Group are also majority owners of Italian Serie A club AS Roma.

“Blue Heaven Holdings has received significant interest from several highly respected parties interested in investing in the club,” Everton said in a statement.

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“The club can confirm today that a period of exclusivity has been granted to The Friedkin Group to progress discussions to acquire a majority shareholding in Everton.”

Last year, Miami-based investment fund 777 Partners said it had signed an agreement with British-Iranian billionaire Moshiri to acquire his 94.1 per cent stake in the club but the deal fell through.

The deal, initially expected to be closed by the end of 2023, was delayed as 777 Partners reportedly struggled to meet the necessary conditions outlined by the Premier League to complete their purchase.