Well, it’s been a slog, hasn’t it.
Three exclusivity deals have come and gone since Moshiri’s search for exit from Goodison Park began more than two years ago. The most recent was the troubled 777 Partners move that collapsed at the end of last month – a development that became increasigly likely in the weeks leading up to the May 31 deadline for the group’s shared purchase agreement with Moshiri.
That started a battle for Everton as wannabe owners emerged backed by investors from all over the world. Starting local, Everton supporters and wealthy businessmen Andy Bell and George Downing looked in with a chance. Their wealth is not so immense they could turn Everton around on their own but it was enough – along with their backgrounds – to attract credible finance, in this case from the merchant bank that manages the wealth of US tech billionaire Michael Dell.
They were challenged by a consortium led by London-based businessman Vatche Manoukian, said to have included backers such as a Gulf royal, and another consortium led by Vici Private Finance. A complex web of vested interests meant MSP Sports Capital and A-CAP, the group that largely financed 777 Partners, were each involved as they sought to protect the loans they had poured into the club, while US businessman John Textor was also a vocal presence, though he was hamstrung by the 45% stake in Crystal Palace that he is trying to sell but which always looked like it would prevent him from being a serious player in this battle.
And then, out of nowhere, Dan Friedkin emerged last Friday and – one week later – he has one hand on the keys to the club.