Two of Europe’s most iconic soccer clubs are on the market for similar reasons, say analysts.
Earlier this year, Manchester United and Liverpool were made available for takeover deals, adding to several ownership changes throughout pro sports including the $5.4 billion sale of Chelsea to a group led by Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, and Sparks part-owner Todd Boehly.
Manchester United and Liverpool — or possibly a stake in them — are up for grabs as sports teams around the world manage mounting losses in a market facing profitability concerns, according to a CNBC report.
The Premier League saw its clubs lose a combined $1.2 billion in the 2020-21 season.
- The Glazer family is mulling a deal for Man United — the third-most-valuable soccer club at $4.6 billion, per Forbes — amid public outcry by fans over poor ownership.
- Liverpool — the fourth-most-valuable soccer team at $4.45 billion — was put on the market in November, and owner Fenway Sports Group could explore a partial sale.
FSG — which also owns the Boston Red Sox and Pittsburgh Penguins — has reportedly yet to receive a “compelling offer” for Liverpool after buying the club for $353.4 million in 2010. The Glazers, who also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, reportedly want more than $7.2 billion for Man U.
Potential Buyers
Investors from Saudi Arabia and Qatar have expressed takeover interest in Liverpool and are reportedly planning to present a joint bid “in the region of $3.9 billion.” Billionaire Jim Ratcliffe has shown interest in Man United, while Amazon may also be mulling a bid.
