Complete takeover possible at Anfield

LIVERPOOL have, for the first time, raised the prospect of a complete takeover of the club as they continue to pursue financial backing to build a new £170m stadium.

Although chief executive Rick Parry insists a club statement confirming talks with “a number of parties” was merely a formality, Liverpool have admitted that future investment may include a takeover bid.

Parry said: “Due to the reports over the weekend, we’re obliged to make a statement and write to shareholders. It’s a formality, but there has been no change to the situation.” The statement comes after talks with Spanish multi-millionaire Juan Villalonga, even though it is unlikely that he alone has the financial muscle to provide the necessary investment.

The statement read: “The board of Liverpool FC has noted the recent press speculation concerning possible third-party investment into the club and can confirm that it is continuing discussions with a number of parties regarding a potential investment of new funds into the club. Although the structure of any such investment is uncertain, it may include an offer for the entire share capital of the club.”

Chairman David Moores has indicated in the past he would accept a new share issue, even though this would mean his current 51.5% stake dropping below the 50% mark, in return for investment, but never before has the suggestion of a complete takeover been made by the club.

A new stadium is viewed as the key to Liverpool’s future. They earned £122m last season, when they won the Champions League, but their income is expected to be at least £40m less than Arsenal’s and Manchester United’s next season, and £30m less than Chelsea’s.

The funds available for new players in the summer is also pressing on the board, with Rafael Benitez wanting a war-chest of £20m for squad strengthening. A number of individuals have been linked with investing in the club.

Last year local businessman Steve Morgan made an unsuccessful approach to invest heavily in the club and before Christmas there was talk of investment by American billionaire Robert Kraft.