Everton fans have got to the point where they don’t need much to get excited.
News of Texan businessman Dan Friedkin signing an exclusivity agreement with Farhad Moshiri to begin the process which would see the American acquire the latter’s 94.1 per cent stake in the club has certainly got the majority believing things may be about to take a turn for the better.
It’s true to say there’s a way to go before qualified pilot Friedkin will be flying over Everton’s new stadium on the Mersey riverfront, but those connected with the deal tell me there is a real willingness to get the job done and begin to re-establish the potential at one of English football’s historic institutions.
The Friedkin group, headed by the 59-year-old, has shown early commitment and intent by agreeing to pay off the loan made by MSP Sports Captial to Everton last year, plus around £40m to assist with working capital and stadium funding. That was a significant step to securing the exclusive rights to commence due diligence and the Premier League process of approval.
Moshiri had a number of options before choosing Friedkin to do business with, and I understand it was because of the Texan’s intention to invest pure equity – meaning the club would be more financially secure and have a stadium virtually debt free – which attracted him. He feels the Friedkin proposal allows him to leave the club in a strong position as it moves into a new era.
Everton fans, however, are keen to know who Friedkin is and what his plans are for their club.
By all accounts he’s not a man that shouts from the rooftops, nor does he seek publicity, but it is clear that he is a very interesting and colourful character with a diverse set of interests.
