The possible sale of Liverpool FC has returned to dominate the back pages in the last few days amid reports that Chinese tycoon Kenny Huang is now in talks with the Royal Bank of Scotland over taking control of the Anfield side (Liverpool 7/4 to secure a top four finish).
The Times claims Huang is eager to secure a deal for the club before the transfer window closes, at 1700 BST on September 1.
American duo Tom Hicks and George Gillett are the current owners of Liverpool but the pair are desperate to sell. They put the club up for sale in April, after three years in charge at Anfield.
Reports claim that sources close to Huang have said he is eager to seal a deal as quickly as possible so boss Roy Hodgson can be given additional funds to bring in new players.
“He wants to get it done quickly so investment can come this summer,” a source close to his proposed bid is quoted as saying. “Liverpool need investment in the playing squad and infrastructure, and Huang wants to build the (new) stadium. The club has an outstanding reputation but does not have the infrastructure to keep with it and make it grow.”
Hodgson has already signed free-agent Joe Cole after the England international’s contract at Chelsea came to an end, defender Danny Wilson from Rangers, Milan Jovanovic from Standard Liege and promising youngster Jonjo Shelvey from Charlton Athletic, as well as re-signing left-back Fabio Aurelio. However, the former Fulham boss is still on the lookout for new faces.
Liverpool are also desperately trying to convince Fernando Torres to remain at Anfield, with Chelsea and Manchester City both interested in the Spanish star, and if Huang manages to strike a deal for the club, he will do everything he can to ensure the star striker sticks with Hodgson’s side.
However, Liverpool chairman Martin Broughton has revealed that several bids have been made for the club, although Huang is thought to be the front-runner in the race to sign the Premier League outfit.
“Any bids that go straight to RBS – and there have been several – come to me and are directed to Barcap,” Broughton said. “RBS are not involved. The control remains with the board.”
Liverpool face Arsenal in their opening Premier League fixture on August 15, and although Hicks and Gillett may still be the owners when the season starts, it seems certain that their tenure will not last much longer (Liverpool 5/4, draw 23/10, Arsenal 7/4).
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