Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and a consortium led by Amit Bhatia are reportedly close to acquiring a 30% minority stake in Liverpool Football Club. The deal, which keeps Fenway Sports Group in control, values the club at nearly $6 billion. The transaction is still subject to final negotiations and regulatory approval.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is nearing a deal to secure a significant stake in Liverpool Football Club. The investment is being arranged by an investor consortium led by Amit Bhatia, who is the son-in-law of steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal. Reports indicate the deal could see the group acquire a roughly 30% interest in the English Premier League side.
This proposed transaction values Liverpool FC at approximately $6 billion (£4.4 billion). This represents a notable rise in valuation compared to 2023, when minority investor Dynasty Equity acquired a smaller stake at a £3.3 billion valuation. The current deal is structured as a strategic minority investment, which means Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club's controlling owner since 2010, will retain decision-making authority and operational control of the club.
The consortium reportedly includes other high-profile figures, such as Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin. Amit Bhatia’s leadership in this group is significant, given his past experience in English football through his previous involvement with Queens Park Rangers (QPR). While Lakshmi Mittal is not reported to be part of this specific deal, the move reflects a continued trend of major global business leaders looking to invest in top-tier English football clubs.
While the deal is progressing, it has not been finalized. A key monitorable for investors and stakeholders is the regulatory process. Any such acquisition in the English Premier League must pass strict “owners and directors” tests. These regulations allow the league to scrutinize the source of funds and the suitability of the investors involved. Consequently, there is an inherent risk that regulatory hurdles or last-minute negotiation changes could delay or alter the deal.
Beyond regulatory scrutiny, the long-term success of the investment will depend on the club’s ability to generate steady revenue and maintain high performance in a competitive sporting environment. The valuation relies on the club’s ability to remain at the elite level of the sport, where costs for player acquisition and infrastructure spending continue to rise. Market participants will watch for an official confirmation from Fenway Sports Group, which could be released as early as this week, depending on how quickly the final terms are settled.