Everton takeover talks with Friedkin Group called off

Everton’s talks with the Friedkin Group over a takeover of the club have been called off after the two parties failed to reach an agreement.

The Friedkin Group, which also owns Serie A club Roma, had agreed a deal in principle to take over the club in June.

Chairman Dan Friedkin and his group were granted exclusivity in talks after a deal with Miami-based firm 777 partners broke down.

“The parties agree it is in both their interests for Everton to explore alternative options,” said the Friedkin Group and Everton’s current owner Blue Heaven Holdings in a joint statement.

The Friedkin Group, which injected £200m into the club and paid off a £158m loan to MSP Sports Capital and two local businessmen, will “remain a lender to the club”, the statement added.

Farhad Moshiri, who bought a 49.9% share in Everton in 2016, is now its majority owner through Blue Heaven Holdings with a 94% stake.

More to follow.