UK Government worry for Everton as Farhad Moshiri begins new talks for investment
Everton owner Farhad Moshiri has started fresh talks with 777 Partners amid concern from the United Kingdom Government over the club agreeing a deal with the US firm, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper reported via its website on Wednesday [30 August] that there is doubt over whether 777’s managing partner Josh Wander would pass the Owners’ and Directors’ Test.
It is claimed that questions have been raised due to the company’s involvement in several court cases in the United States, while there are also worries over sister company Sutton Park.
777 Partners already has stakes in seven different clubs – Sevilla, Genoa and Hertha Berlin among them.
The Daily Mail says both Everton and 777 declined to comment on their story.
Concerns
Everton turned to the US firm after MSP Sports Capital recently withdrew from exclusive negotiations with the club over a £150million injection.
That was considered a huge blow for the Toffees and forced them to reignite discussions with 777, who had seen their previous investment offer rejected in May.
Given the pressing need for a large cash injection to help fund the building of the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, and a lack of other options, Everton cannot afford for these latest talks to collapse.
However, this development is rather worrying as 777 Sports’ previous dealings have now been put firmly under the spotlight.
The Daily Mail reports that the UK Government does not have to power to block an investment as such at this stage, but they can raise the issue with the Premier League.
If there was not already a dark enough cloud hanging over Goodison Park, this pressing off-field issue could mean things soon become a whole lot worse.
In other Everton news, the Toffees have reportedly held talks over signing a Manchester United player.