A consortium featuring Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire a 30% stake in Liverpool Football Club. Following months of discussions with Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the investors are set to pay in the region of £1.35 billion for almost a third of the Premier League club.
The group is led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, who previously held shares in Queens Park Rangers. Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin is also a member of the consortium. The Guardian understands the deal is effectively agreed, though it may take up to a month to finalise.
This marks Bezos' first foray into football investment, having previously explored bids for NFL franchises. Deloitte has reportedly advised on the deal, which will see the 62-year-old receive equity in the club.
This potential investment comes during a summer of significant change at Anfield. Andoni Iraola has taken over as head coach from Arne Slot, while Mohamed Salah departed on a free transfer to Trabzonspor. Additionally, Michael Edwards has left his role as chief executive officer at FSG.