Everton could be heading towards another change in ownership after The Friedkin Group confirmed it is exploring fresh investment opportunities, including the possible sale of a controlling stake in the Premier League club.
The American investment group, led by billionaire Dan Friedkin, said it was considering the club’s next phase after working to address financial uncertainty and support the completion of Everton’s new stadium.
The announcement comes less than two years after the group officially took control of the Toffees in December 2024.
£400 Million Takeover Ended Moshiri Era
The Friedkin Group acquired 99.5 per cent of Everton’s shares through its investment vehicle, Roundhouse Capital, in a transaction estimated to be worth more than £400 million.
The deal brought an end to Farhad Moshiri’s turbulent period as owner, during which Everton faced significant financial pressures, particularly as construction of the club’s new stadium continued.
The sales process had also been prolonged by failed takeover attempts involving 777 Partners and MSP Sports Capital, leaving the club’s ownership situation uncertain before Friedkin’s arrival.
Club Says Financial Stability Was Its Initial Priority
In its statement, The Friedkin Group said its immediate focus after taking over was to provide the financial backing and stability Everton needed to secure its future.
The group highlighted the challenges facing the club both on and off the pitch when it became responsible for its operations. It also pointed to the completion of the long-awaited stadium as a key part of its efforts to establish a stronger foundation.
With those priorities addressed, the owners said they believed the time had come to consider potential options for Everton’s future.
Potential Buyers Must Meet Ownership Expectations
Although The Friedkin Group has confirmed it is open to selling a controlling interest, it stressed that any prospective investor would need to be suitable for the club’s long-term ambitions.
The group said it would only consider interest from parties it believed could responsibly lead Everton forward and build on the progress made during its ownership.
It also pledged to continue supporting the club throughout the process, including efforts to improve performances on the pitch and contribute positively to the communities Everton serves.
The statement did not identify any potential buyers or provide a timetable for the process.
Moelis & Company Appointed to Handle the Process
The Friedkin Group has retained financial advisory firm Moelis & Company to assist with exploring investment options.
The owners said neither the group nor the club would make further comments while the work was ongoing.
The appointment signals that the search for potential investment or a buyer is being handled through a formal advisory process, although no completed transaction has been announced.
£350 Million Stadium Refinancing Deal
Soon after taking control of Everton, The Friedkin Group agreed to provide a £350 million funding arrangement to refinance borrowing linked to the club’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The financing was viewed as beneficial because its long-term loan structure significantly reduced interest payments, helping ease some of the financial pressure associated with the stadium project.
The new ground was a major undertaking during the final years of Moshiri’s ownership and formed an important part of the financial challenges inherited by the American group.
Everton Faces Another Potential Turning Point
The prospect of a sale introduces another significant development in Everton’s recent history, following years of financial uncertainty, failed takeover attempts and the transition to a new stadium.
The Friedkin Group has presented its search for investment as an opportunity to plan the club’s next chapter rather than an abandonment of its commitment to Everton.
For now, however, the ownership process remains exploratory. Whether it leads to a full sale or another investment arrangement will depend on the interest received and the suitability of potential partners.
