A consortium led by former Newcastle United co-owner Amanda Staveley has entered talks to purchase a 25% stake in West Ham, a move that has triggered a warning to the club's major shareholder Daniel Kretinsky.
The group, which also includes Staveley's husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, has expressed a firm interest in buying Vanessa Gold's stake in the club and discussions have developed in recent weeks. Staveley has secured global investment to help secure the deal.
David Sullivan and Daniel Kretinsky are currently the club's major shareholders. Sullivan stepped down as joint chairman of the club in June following allegations of abusing his power and preying on women for sex. Multiple women have accused Sullivan of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour, including pressuring them for sex during business meetings.
The allegations span decades, starting in the 1980s, and include claims that Sullivan offered to boost the women's careers if they slept with him or gave him oral sex. Sullivan, 77, has "categorically" denied the claims.
The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has contacted West Ham over the allegations and is seeking "urgent information" from Sullivan about his suitability for the role. The IFR has not yet made any public comment on the matter.
The talks with Staveley's consortium come as West Ham looks to rebuild and return to the Premier League after being relegated last season. The club's new owners will face significant challenges in restoring the team's fortunes and rebuilding fan trust.
Amanda Staveley was also involved in a consortium that had designs on purchasing Tottenham Hotspur last season. She and her husband sold their shares and left Newcastle in July 2024.
The development is the latest twist in a complex and sensitive situation at West Ham. The club's owners have faced intense scrutiny over the past year, and the talks with Staveley's consortium are likely to be closely watched by fans and investors alike.
The outcome of the talks is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the future of West Ham is set to be shaped by a new set of owners who will face significant challenges in restoring the team's fortunes.
Source: BBC Sports