Liverpool’s owner, John Henry, has already conveyed his stance regarding the potential Qatari sale amidst swirling rumors of Sheikh Jassim’s interest in acquiring the club. Just last week, news emerged that Sheikh Jassim and his Nine Two foundation had stepped back from the protracted takeover battle for Manchester United.
However, in a surprising twist, he is now being considered as a contender to make a bid for Premier League rivals Liverpool, a club that openly declared its willingness to entertain offers in November of the previous year. Speaking on the ‘It’s All Kicking Off’ podcast, Mike Keegan, a journalist from the Daily Mail, revealed that the Qataris had earmarked around $8 billion (£6.57 billion) for the United acquisition.
“That money is there and ready to go, burning a hole in their pockets, so what a story that would be [to buy Liverpool].
“From what I am led to believe, they [Qataris] are very, very disappointed and angered at how this has played out.
“What better way to respond than to get United’s biggest rivals from down the road and throw all that money you were going to throw into Manchester United into making them pay for that decision not to sell to you.”
Nevertheless, Liverpool’s owner, John Henry, effectively quashed the notion of a complete sale of the club back in February, firmly stating that Fenway Sports Group remained dedicated to Liverpool. In an interview with the Boston Sports Journal, as reported by The Independent, he emphasized, “I know there has been a lot of conversation and quotes about LFC, but I keep to the facts: we merely formalized an ongoing process.”
“Will we be in England forever? No. Are we selling LFC? No. Are talking with investors about LFC? Yes. Will something happen there? I believe so, but it won’t be a sale.
“Have we sold anything in the past 20-plus years?”
Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that Fenway Sports Group (FSG) did agree to sell a minority stake to the US private equity firm Dynasty Equity back in September, indicating their willingness to entertain additional investments. The transaction is believed to be valued in the range of $100 million to $200 million (£82 million to £164 million), as reported by The Guardian.
These funds are expected to contribute significantly to Liverpool’s summer transfer activities. In an official statement confirming the club’s minority sale, FSG President Mike Gordon assured the Liverpool community, saying, “Our long-term commitment to Liverpool remains as steadfast as ever.”
“We have always said that if there is an investment partner that is right for Liverpool then we would pursue the opportunity to help ensure the club’s long-term financial resiliency and future growth.
“We look forward to building upon the long-standing relationship with Dynasty to further strengthen the club’s financial position and sustain our ambitions for continued success on and off the pitch.”