The Friedkin Group (TFG) is moving closer to completing a takeover of Everton, with reports suggesting the American firm is also prepared to sell a share of AS Roma as part of their plans.
Led by Texan billionaire Dan Friedkin, TFG aims to finalise the acquisition of Everton from current majority owner Farhad Moshiri by the end of the year.
While the deal is still subject to regulatory approval, this is not expected to be a stumbling block, given the group’s ownership of another major European club.
TFG has controlled Roma since August 2020, during which time the Italian side secured the Europa Conference League title and reached the Europa League semi-finals last season. Now, with the Everton deal approaching, reports suggest TFG may sell a minority stake in Roma to facilitate the process.
Italian journalist Enrico Camelio confirmed the developments, stating: “We’ve verified that the source is serious. Yesterday at the Stadio Olimpico, there were some people – not the owners, not the Friedkins, as they’re not in Rome – who were wealthy. They were even in the Friedkins’ offices. We can say they are Arabs.
“The Friedkins won’t sell. They will give up some shares, around 30 per cent. This has been said to us, and so this is what we’re reporting. They can do it because it’s no longer on the stock market, they got out last year.”
Adding intrigue to the situation, Qatari emissaries were reportedly present at the Stadio Olimpico during Roma’s 1-0 loss to Inter Milan last weekend.
Sheikh Tamim ibn Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, was also in Rome on a two-day visit, further fueling speculation about potential Arab interest in Roma.
Earlier this year, Italian financial newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore reported that Arab investors had shown interest in acquiring a stake in Roma.
Moreover, the club’s primary sponsor is Riyadh Season, a Saudi Arabian initiative that stages various entertainment and sporting events, suggesting a growing connection between Roma and the Gulf region.
As the Friedkin Group pushes forward with its Everton ambitions, the sale of a Roma stake could provide fresh capital while expanding the group’s footprint in European football.