Kieran Maguire

Mon 28 November 2022 8:04, UK

Fenway Sports Group will have been “uncomfortable” with announcing their intention to sell Liverpool but it was necessary in order to “flush out” interest and “drive up the price”, according to Kieran Maguire.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the football finance guru claimed a bidding war is in FSG’s “best interests” as they look for the biggest return on their investment.

The club’s owners recently issued a statement confirming that they are open to selling Liverpool, and it has been widely reported that they are working with two major banks – Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley – to facilitate a deal.

According to the Liverpool Echo (23 November), senior Anfield figures were left “stunned” when they heard of FSG’s willingness to sell – after rumours initially emerged suggesting they were merely looking for new investment.

The report claims the John Henry-fronted operation are looking for a $4billion figure before opening the door to conversation with interested parties.

FSG bought the club for a reported £300million back in 2010.

Maguire suggested the announcement could attract “wavering” potential buyers who are unsure of stepping into the world of football.

He told Football Insider’s finance & governance correspondent Adam Williams: “For FSG, the additional scrutiny that has arisen since the announcement is going to make them uncomfortable because they are publicity-shy.

“That’s the downside, but the advantage is that now this is out in the public domain – it will drive up the number of potential buyers.

“This announcement could attract some who may have been wavering in terms of their interest in football.

“They know that the opportunity to get one of football’s crown jewels doesn’t come around very often.

“It could also flush out some other interest and, in turn, drive up the price, which is in FSG’s best interests.”

In other news, pundit tells Jordan Henderson and big-name Liverpool teammate to quit.