Last week it was revealed that FSG had put Liverpool up for sale with the Americans appointing Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to help with the process. A statement at the time read: “There have been a number of recent ownership changes and rumors of ownership changes at EPL clubs and inevitably we are regularly asked about Fenway Sports Group’s ownership of Liverpool. “FSG has frequently received expressions of interest from third parties seeking to become shareholders in Liverpool. FSG have said in the past 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 Liverpool’s success, both on and off the pitch. And now CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs has an update on a potential takeover with FSG preferring “a full sale over minority investment.” Jacobs tweeted: “A bit more info on a potential sale to Liverpool. I understand that FSG would prefer a full sale over a minority investment, despite hearing offers of all kinds. And the expectation, from those familiar with the process, is that a sale may happen sooner rather than later. “Important to note that ‘sooner’ in a sale context still requires considerable time, especially without any interested parties in exclusive talks or due diligence. But sources say the stress wheels are very much in motion with Mike Gordon now focused on finding options. “Jurgen Klopp has been given assurances, regardless of the timing, that the next two transfer windows will not be affected by the process. It is normal on the recruitment and planning side. “Multiple sources also say the sale process is being framed towards a US-led investor, with one group already in discussions for a few weeks and other investors, who have looked at Chelsea in particular, still seriously considering the offer. “Since David Ornstein broke the news of a potential sale, Liverpool have had a number of new suitors enquire. But Dubai Holding (or an affiliate) and Mumtalakat both deny their interest. A MENA based buyer or investor is not likely. “Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) is a genuine suitor and, since trying out for Chelsea, has remained in the market for a global club/brand. This is not good news for Palace (Harris/Blitzer shares). But Palace presented no roadblocks during Chelsea’s sales pitch. “FSG expects Liverpool to sell almost $1bn more than Chelsea, although their Forbes valuation is even higher ($4.45bn). They have specifically used this sale as a measure. That would put a sale price in today’s market at $3.7bn (£3.1bn). “Chelsea actually had $3.1 billion at the time, which equated to £2.3 billion. But now it would only be $2.7 billion and that’s the number by which #LFC somewhat judge their worth. “The expectation, from those familiar with the process, is that bids of $3 billion and above will be seriously entertained. However, the increasing volume of interest will result in a higher sale price should a selected bidder proceed. “A complete sale is far from certain. “FSG not only want the right price (they make a huge profit either way) but also the right group, so a lot will depend not only on the offer but also on the plan for the future team.” READ MORE: World Cup loss: Premier League XI of players who didn’t make the planes
