Key Takeaways:
- Everton were put up for sale by the Friedkin Group just two years after their takeover in December 2024
- Friedkin Group requires any new buyer to demonstrate an ability to elevate the club before sanctioning a full sale
- Summer transfer frustrations persisted as Everton sold £100m worth of players yet failed to secure key attacking targets
Ownership Perspective and Sale Conditions
Everton’s American owners, the Friedkin Group (TFG), have formally placed the club on the market after just two years at the helm. Reports from The Athletic confirm that while they initially sought only minority investment, TFG are now considering a complete sale of their majority stake. However, the group has made it clear that they will only relinquish control if a successor is identified who can propel Everton “to the next level.”
TFG completed their acquisition of Farhad Moshiri’s 94 per cent share in December 2024 via Roundhouse Capital. Following years of financial instability, their intervention provided vital stability for the historic Merseyside outfit.
Despite their intent to sell, TFG have assured fans that they remain fully committed in the interim and will continue to oversee operations at Hill Dickinson Stadium until an ideal buyer is found.
Club statement.
— Everton (@Everton) October 9, 2026
Managerial Communication and Executive Structure
In light of a difficult summer transfer period, Everton manager David Moyes offered insight into his dealings with the hierarchy, admitting that direct contact with TFG chief Dan Friedkin is rare.
“My real contact is Angus [Kinnear, Everton CEO]. Angus is the one who I would go to see,” Moyes explained. “Rishi [Majithia] is the next one and then the head of the Friedkin family in America. I don’t really get any direct conversations with them.”
This degree of separation between the football operations and ownership marks a contrast to earlier promises made by Friedkin, who upon arriving at the club wrote in an open letter:
“I take immense pride in welcoming one of England’s most historic football clubs to our global family,” Friedkin stated. “We are deeply committed to honouring this legacy while contributing positively to the community, economy, and people of this remarkable city.”
Financial Stabilisation and Market Moves
Since acquiring Everton, TFG have overseen a significant financial recovery. The group refinanced expensive debt and secured improved loan terms against the club’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, while attracting further investment in 2023 from high-profile figures such as former NBA coach Jason Kidd and billionaire Christopher Sarofim.
However, transfer activity in the most recent window left fans disillusioned. The club grossed approximately £25 million in profit through the sale of £100m worth of players, including Beto and Iliman Ndiaye. The proposed £40m transfer of youth product Harrison Armstrong met with vocal supporter opposition and was ultimately cancelled.
While Jack Grealish secured a second consecutive loan spell and Ainsley Maitland-Niles was added to the squad, a high-profile £45m move for striker Folarin Balogun collapsed, increasing pressure on the management to address up-front deficiencies. Meanwhile, TFG are simultaneously managing other sports investments, including Roma, AS Cannes, and a newly established $3.5 billion NHL franchise in Houston.
Looking Ahead Amid Ownership Uncertainty
Everton now face the challenge of navigating the ongoing campaign while speculation persists regarding their ownership. With a forward line weakened by unfulfilled transfer plans, David Moyes will need to optimise his available resources to drive improvement in the Premier League standings.
During the continued search for external investment or a full takeover, the Friedkin Group will maintain their commitment to daily operations and financial backing at Hill Dickinson Stadium, while holding out for a buyer who meets their stringent requirements.
