Jeff Bezos approaches Liverpool investment consortium
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reportedly been approached about joining a consortium seeking to buy a significant stake in Liverpool, in a move that could see one of the world’s richest men become involved with the Premier League giants, reports BritPanorama.
The billionaire businessman is said to have held discussions over backing an investment group led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, as negotiations continue with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG).
According to Sky News, Bezos has explored the proposal but has yet to decide whether he will participate in any deal involving the Anfield club. With an estimated fortune of almost $257 billion (£191 billion), Bezos ranks among the wealthiest individuals globally and has previously been linked with investments in American sport.
The consortium fronted by Bhatia is reportedly discussing the purchase of a strategic minority stake in Liverpool, with the talks said to value the club at no less than $6 billion (£4.47 billion). While no agreement has been reached, that valuation would position Liverpool among the most valuable football clubs worldwide, aligning with recent landmark transactions in elite sports.
Bhatia took a significant step earlier this week by relinquishing control of his stake in Championship side Queens Park Rangers, clearing the way for a possible investment in Liverpool. Speculation has emerged indicating that the consortium could ultimately acquire as much as a 30 per cent shareholding. However, there is no indication that FSG is actively seeking to sell control of the club.
Discussion surrounding FSG’s long-term plans has been ongoing for several years, but those close to the ownership group have sought to downplay suggestions that a full sale is imminent. An FSG spokesperson confirmed that discussions are taking place: “An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club.”
The proposed transaction is believed to follow a similar structure to the investment made by Dynasty Equity in 2023, when Liverpool were reportedly valued at more than $4.5 billion. Fenway Sports Group, led by John Henry, has owned Liverpool since completing its takeover in 2010, rescuing the club during a period of severe financial uncertainty. During FSG’s tenure, Liverpool have re-established themselves as one of Europe’s dominant clubs, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
However, the ownership has faced criticism from supporters at various points, particularly over footballing decisions and wider strategic direction. Liverpool are now preparing for another new era after appointing former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as head coach following Arne Slot’s departure earlier this summer. The dynamics surrounding the ownership and potential changes underline the volatility and ambition within the Premier League landscape, where fortunes can shift in a single season.
