Everton Up for Sale Again as Friedkin Group Seeks Exit
The Friedkin Group has put Everton up for sale after a turbulent tenure marked by fan backlash and a botched transfer window, with experts expecting a price of £750m-£800m.
Everton's owners, The Friedkin Group, have announced they are seeking a buyer for the club, less than two years after purchasing a 99.5% stake for over £400m in December 2024. The low-key statement on Friday morning signals a swift exit for the American owners, who also control Serie A side AS Roma.
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire told BBC Sport that TFG are likely to seek between £750m and £800m for a full sale, with the club carrying debts of around £468m. Maguire cited a £35m compensation payment to Burnley for a Profit and Sustainability Rules breach as a factor, suggesting TFG were shocked by the litigious nature of English football compared to US sports ownership.
The relationship between TFG and Everton supporters deteriorated sharply after a failed attempt to sell academy graduate Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest for £40m. Following fan protests, the deal was blocked, but the damage was done. Subsequent sales of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City and Beto to Fiorentina, plus the collapse of a move for Folarin Balogun, left manager David Moyes with a depleted squad.
Moyes revealed he learned of the sale at the same time as the public, highlighting a disconnect with the ownership. "I'm disappointed that Evertonians have to go through another period of 'who are our owners?'" he said. Maguire described TFG as absentee owners, noting chairman Dan Friedkin has never attended an Everton game or spoken to Moyes since his return in January 2025.
Despite the turmoil, Maguire believes Everton remain an attractive proposition due to their history, passionate fanbase, and a modern 50,000-plus stadium at Bramley Moore Dock. He expects interest from American buyers, citing the scarcity of Premier League clubs and the potential to 'buy low and sell high'. TFG will hope for a quick sale, with Maguire noting that due diligence has already been done.
Supporters have reacted with a mix of frustration and resignation, with some expressing relief at the prospect of new ownership. The club's immediate focus remains on the pitch, where Moyes is preparing for the trip to Hull City, but the off-field uncertainty continues to loom large.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
