Everton's owners, The Friedkin Group (TFG), have announced they are exploring new investment options, including a potential sale of the club. The 170-word statement, released on Friday, signals a desire to move on after a turbulent period marked by a major rift with supporters.
TFG said its immediate priority upon taking over in December 2024 was to provide stability and support to secure the club's future, including the completion of the new stadium. "With that foundation now safely in place, the time is right to consider the next chapter for Everton," the statement read. It added that any interest would only be entertained from parties believed to be the right stewards to build on the established momentum.
The catalyst for a breakdown in relations was TFG's attempt to sell teenage academy product Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest in a £40m deal. News of the proposed transfer leaked and prompted loud threats of a riot from Everton fans during a match at Bournemouth later that same day. The ownership group went into damage limitation mode and ultimately blocked the sale, but the episode was seen as a catastrophic decision that alienated the core fanbase.
Manager David Moyes confirmed he learned of the potential sale plans at the same time as the public. He also revealed he has never spoken to TFG chief Dan Friedkin since returning to the club in January 2025. Moyes stated his disappointment that supporters face another period of uncertainty over ownership, having believed the new regime was committed for the long term when he rejoined.
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire estimates an asking price of between £750m and £800m for a complete sale, which would involve taking on current debts of around £468m. TFG paid more than £400m for a 99.5% share in December 2024 and later injected £38m to cover a Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules breach. Maguire suggested the club, with its new stadium nearing completion and a passionate fanbase, is an attractive, "oven ready" proposition, likely drawing interest from the United States.
The announcement comes as Everton enjoy a strong start on the pitch, sitting fifth in the Premier League with 10 points from six unbeaten games. The team's recent form, which includes a 2-1 win over Chelsea and a 1-1 draw with Aston Villa, has been built on a solid defence that has conceded just 4 goals in 540 minutes of play. This sporting stability provides a backdrop to the off-field upheaval as the squad prepares for its next fixture, a home match against Brentford. However, the team was left thin after a difficult summer window, which saw striker Beto sold and a move for Folarin Balogun collapse, leaving Moyes with just 18 senior outfield players. The full roster is available on our squad page. The Friedkin Group's statement concluded by affirming its focus would remain on supporting the club throughout any sale process.
This story first appeared at BBC Sport
