Everton have confirmed they’ve been taken over by the Friedkin Group as a new era dawns on the Merseyside club.
The move sees Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited – an entity within the Friedkin Group – acquire Everton, following regulatory approval on Thursday morning.
The American company, headed by Dan Friedkin, also own Roma, but have been criticised by sections of the Serie A outfit’s supporter base.
However, the Friedkin Group are committed to bringing financial stability to Everton, ahead of their big-money move to the Bramley Moore Docks.
Marc Watts has been named as the Toffee’s new executive chairman, having held a senior position within the Freidkin Group.
Ana Dunkel, in her position as the chief financial officer of the Friedkin Group, will also be ushered in as part of the group’s new-look boardroom. Colin Chong will stay on as interim CEO during the club’s search for a permanent CEO.
A statement from the Premier League outfit read: “Everton Football Club has been acquired by Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited (Roundhouse), an entity within The Friedkin Group (TFG).
“The transaction was finalised following an agreement between Farhad Moshiri’s Blue Heaven Holdings (BHH) and Roundhouse for the sale of BHH’s majority stake in the Club.
“The deal received the necessary regulatory approvals from the Premier League, Women’s Professional Leagues Limited, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.”
On the takeover, incoming Executive Chairman of Everton Football Club Marc Watts commented: “Today marks a momentous and proud occasion for The Friedkin Group as we become custodians of this iconic football club.
“We are committed to leading Everton into an exciting new era both on and off the pitch. Providing immediate financial stability to the Club has been a key priority, and we are delighted to have achieved this.
“While restoring Everton to its rightful place in the Premier League table will take time, today is the first step in that journey.”
One of the most pressing issues on the Freidkin Group’s agenda will be the future of Sean Dyche, with Everton having struggled for form so far this season.
But, according to a report from earlier this year, Dyche is expected to keep his job upon the Freidkin Group’s arrival.
The Sun claimed in October that Dyche will be handed a significant transfer kitty to work with during the January window, should the deal be approved in time.
It comes at a crucial point in the season for Everton, who currently sit three points above the relegation zone.
Everton return to action for their final match before Christmas on Sunday afternoon at home to Chelsea.
