Friday, November 30, 2007

Liverpool Owner Tom Hicks To Sell Anfield Stake

Liverpool may be entering a period of upheaval after it emerged co-owner Tom Hicks is looking for a way out of the club.

City sources have confirmed that Hicks, who has been at the forefront of a dispute with manager Rafa Benitez over signings, is preparing to sell his shares.

Hicks took control at Anfield, alongside fellow American George Gillett, following a £219 million takeover.

Both men initially rang the praises of Benitez, calling the manager a genius, with many supporters predicting Liverpool would lift the Premier League title this season after a £40m summer spending spree.

However, results have been inconsistent, sparking criticism of Benitez's rotation policy and prompting the Spaniard to demand more funds in January.

Hicks and Gillett have so far been reluctant to release more money for players, prompting a very public breakdown in relations.

Now it seems developments have reached a head with Hicks hoping to cash in on his investment, as reported in the Mirror.

The businessman has reportedly put a £1 billion guide valuation on the club, and while City analysts have dismissed this as ridiculous, it was revealed last night that Dubai International Capital, the investment group headed by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, are ready to make a new bid having previously attempted a takeover.

No comments: