Key facts
- Amanda Staveley's consortium is set to acquire a 25.1% stake in West Ham United.
- The deal is valued at approximately £150 million, with the club potentially valued at £600 million.
- Staveley has spoken of a "big property play" associated with the football investment.
- Vanessa Gold has reached an agreement to sell her family's shares in the club.
- Daniel Kretinsky holds pre-emption rights and could still acquire the stake.
Amanda Staveley is reportedly nearing a deal to acquire a 25.1% stake in West Ham United, a move she has described as a "big property play" in English football. The investment, valued at approximately £150 million and potentially valuing the second-tier club at £600 million, is being made by Staveley, her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, and other partners. The stake is being purchased from Vanessa Gold, daughter of former West Ham co-owner David Gold.
Staveley, who was involved in the 2008 sale of Manchester City and the 2021 purchase of Newcastle United, sees value in growing football clubs. Her potential involvement with West Ham could lead to changes at the London Stadium, which the club rents under a deal negotiated by Baroness Karren Brady. The stadium's annual cost to the UK taxpayer is £19 million, and its ownership structure has been a point of contention, particularly regarding its availability for events like a potential 2029 Athletics World Championships.
However, the deal faces potential competition. Royal Mail proprietor Daniel Kretinsky, who previously appeared to agree on a deal to become the club's largest shareholder, holds pre-emption rights. David Sullivan, the club's largest shareholder, also faces an uncertain future amid historical allegations he denies.
In a statement, Vanessa Gold confirmed reaching an agreement with Staveley's consortium, PCP Capital Partners, in partnership with Ashland Forest Capital Partners, and aimed to keep fans informed.