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Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, who is the world’s 10th richest person, has been linked with a Liverpool takeover.
On Monday an Athletic report claimed the Fenway Sports Group (FSG), who have owned Liverpool since 2010, had put the club up for sale.
A full sales presentation has allegedly been produced for interested parties, while Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley are said to have been retained to assist with the process.
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FSG responded with a statement in which they claimed “they would consider new shareholders” if the right buyer came along, but remained “fully committed to the success of Liverpool, both on and off the pitch.”
The full FSG statement read: “There have been a number of recent changes of ownership and rumours of changes in ownership at EPL clubs and inevitably we are asked regularly about Fenway Sports Group’s ownership in Liverpool.
“FSG has frequently received expressions of interest from third parties seeking to become shareholders in Liverpool. FSG has said before that under the right terms and conditions we would consider new shareholders if it was in the best interests of Liverpool as a club.
“FSG remains fully committed to the success of Liverpool, both on and off the pitch.”
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Amid confusion surrounding FSG’s position, there has also been much speculation as to who may look to purchase the Premier League giants.
Steve Ballmer link
Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft, has been rumoured to be a potential future owner of Liverpool (though it’s important to emphasise there are few genuine links).
The Detroit-born businessman, who has a staggering net worth of $86 billion (£73billion) according to Bloomberg’s Billionaire index, is the tenth richest person in the world.
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He is also a very accomplished owner of a sports team.
Earlier this year Ballmer, who owns the LA Clippers, was named the richest owner in sport for the eighth consecutive time, while he has also previously been named the “best owner in the NBA”.
Ballmer is relatively socially conscious. According to Influence Watch, he and his wife have funded political groups looking to increase opportunities for ethnic minorities. He has also made significant donations to bring more gun control legislation.
Whether Ballmer is genuinely interested remains to be seen, the links will likely sit well with Liverpool fans.
Topics: Football, Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp
Chris Byfield