(Credit: Imago/David Storch on X)

James Murray

Sat 18 April 2026 6:30, UK

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Sheffield Wednesday’s prospective owner David Storch is not expected to walk away from his takeover deal despite confirmation they will receive a further 15-point deduction.

That is according to former Everton, Aston Villa and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness, who exclusively told Football Insider the punishments have “gone too far” for the Championship club.

The Owls have been relegated to League One, having been deducted 18 points for breaching the EFL’s regulations after going into administration. 

Arise Capital Partners, which comprises Storch, his son Michael and Tom Costin, was granted preferred bidder status to seal a takeover at Hillsborough last month.

However, Storch has now confirmed Sheffield Wednesday will be deducted 15 points next season due to Arise’s offer not meeting the EFL’s requirement to repay creditors 25p in the pound. 

How David Storch is ‘fighting back’ against 15-point deduction

Storch released a statement this week, where he called upon the EFL to recognise the “unique” nature of Sheffield Wednesday’s situation, adding that his group “fundamentally disagree” with the 15-point deduction.

The update has caused concern among Owls fans around the prospect of Arise pulling out of the deal after James Bord withdrew from the process in February despite previously being granted exclusivity. 

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Wyness discussed whether Storch could also walk away after analysing his statement.

“I don’t think that’s the case at all,” said Wyness.

“When I read the statement, it was a very reasoned advocacy of their position. There is every reason to question the 15-point penalty and to ask the EFL to think again.

“I don’t see this being the end of it by any means, but in every negotiation, there are different points when you have to fight back.

“He’s quite right and has done it in a very reasoned way, so I fully support what he’s asking for.” 

How 15-point deduction would impact Sheffield Wednesday next season

Wyness believes it will be difficult for Sheffield Wednesday to operate with a 15-point deduction in League One next season.

“It’s going to be very hard,” said Wyness.

“They have gone through a lot, and this is just another punishment that has gone a step too far. 

“It would damage the hope for the supporters. They are getting a lot of punishment right now. This is about trying to keep the club prospering and trying to give hope for the whole football pyramid.

“It should also be shown that bad owners will be sanctioned further to try and prevent some of the speculators that have come into football.”