Sheffield Wednesday are not close to being sold as of yet but there are interested parties, and former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is among them, according to Alan Biggs.
Sheffield Wednesday remain mired in uncertainty as questions over the club’s future continue to mount. Owner Dejphon Chansiri retains control despite ongoing financial turmoil, and the consequences of his tenure are becoming increasingly visible.
Chansiri has shown little inclination to pursue meaningful takeover discussions, and talk of potential new investment has all but disappeared. In the meantime, supporters continue their protests, growing ever more frustrated and desperate for the long-serving owner to depart Hillsborough, pleas that so far have gone unanswered.
Image courtesy of: CRAIG BROUGH/REUTERS.
Despite the lack of concrete talks over a takeover, interested parties are starting to emerge. John Textor has spoken at large about his interest after cutting ties with Lyon and Crystal Palace this summer.
However, Sheffield Star reporter Alan Biggs has listed two more names with concrete interest. Owls fan and businessman David Richards is one, and the other is former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley, whose interest is not confirmed.
No movement is occurring at the moment from any party, according to Biggs. He has claimed that all three are simply monitoring the situation as things stand.
Ashley could be ideal for Sheffield Wednesday – despite Newcastle hatred
Mike Ashley was not a well-loved owner at Newcastle United due to the club’s performance. The Magpies have thrived since he left the club four years ago this week.
Image courtesy of: ED SYKES/REUTERS.
However, given the current situation Sheffield Wednesday are in, he could be perfect for the club. Ashley had his faults at Newcastle United, but he always wanted and got the club into the top-flight and into a very competitive financial position.
He will view the club as an asset, but that’s the reality with most football club owners these days. Given the money that is in the top-flight these days, he will do everything he can to get the club back to that level.
There is a long way to go for Sheffield Wednesday, and it remains to be seen if Ashley will act on any potential interest. Sadly for SWFC fans, even if he takes over, it will take a lot of investment to turn the club around, given the state Chansiri will leave it in.
The current state of affairs for Sheffield Wednesday
Any interested party will have an eye on the current affairs at SWFC. At present, those affairs are not appealing, and that does not look to be changing anytime soon.
Unpaid players, staff unionising as well no infrastructure investment leave the club a mess. A true testament to the work, or lack of, from Chansiri.
The playing squad are doing all they can to keep the club in the league. However, with points deductions likely, relegation back to League One is a real possibility, another thing that could put off those interested parties.