Liverpool owners FSG explore buying MLS club – Exclusive
Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group are exploring the possibility of buying an MLS club, sources have told Football Insider.
The US-based owners have already said they want to develop a multi-club network that can enhance their ownership of the Premier League giants.
It is understood that FSG believe there is a big gap in the US market, where a European sporting approach can be introduce to an American franchise.
Traditionally the MLS clubs’ strong areas are athleticism and data-based knowledge but they lag behind European elite clubs in terms of coaching and player development.
FSG are already stakeholders in Liverpool, the Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Penguins and Nascar’s RFK Racing – they are now looking to expand their sporting portfolio into the MLS as well as buying clubs in other regions.
Liverpool’s Premier League rivals Man City are part of the City Football Group investment portfolio, which also owns New York City FC, while Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke’s holding company also includes the Colorado Rapids.
Liverpool set sights on sensational US deal
News of a potential takeover deal follows the announcement that FSG have struck a deal with Michael Edwards to return to Liverpool in a football CEO role.
The 44-year-old left Liverpool in 2022 after 10 years with the club and he is set to return in June to oversee all football operations.
In his return statement, Edwards revealed one of his priorities will be enhancing FSG’s football club portfolio, and he is already laying the groundwork for the first multi-club ownership deal.
FSG could explore options for a majority takeover deal of an MLS club, but new rules introduced in 2021 mean minority investments upwards of £16million ($20million) are also allowed.
According to Sportico, the new rules were voted through as the MLS was “hoping to make minority sales easier, allowing owners to access capital.”
In other news, Arrival date of new Liverpool chief revealed after breakthrough in talks
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