Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reportedly been approached about joining a consortium seeking to buy a significant stake in Liverpool, in a move that could see one of the world’s richest men become involved with the Premier League giants.
The billionaire businessman is said to have held discussions over backing an investment group led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, as negotiations continue with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG).
According to Sky News, Bezos has explored the proposal but has yet to decide whether he will participate in any deal involving the Anfield club.
With an estimated fortune of almost $257billion (£191bn), Bezos is among the wealthiest people in the world and has previously been linked with investments in American sport.
The Amazon and Blue Origin founder is said to have considered bids for NFL franchises including the Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Commanders, although neither proposal ultimately materialised.
Should Bezos join the Liverpool consortium, it would mark one of the biggest investments by a US billionaire into English football and further strengthen American influence across the Premier League.
Around half of the division’s 20 clubs are currently under predominantly American ownership, including Arsenal and Manchester United, while Crystal Palace are exploring changes to their ownership structure.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reportedly been approached about joining a consortium seeking to buy a significant stake in Liverpool, in a move that could see one of the world’s richest men become involved with the Premier League giants
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The consortium fronted by Bhatia is reportedly discussing the purchase of a strategic minority stake in Liverpool, with the talks said to value the club at no less than $6bn (£4.47bn).
While no agreement has been reached, that valuation would place Liverpool among the most valuable football clubs in world sport and close to the figures seen in recent landmark transactions involving elite sporting organisations.
Bhatia took a significant step earlier this week by relinquishing control of his stake in Championship side Queens Park Rangers, clearing the way for a possible investment in Liverpool.
Jeff Bezos is one of the richest men on the planet
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It’s been rumoured the consortium could ultimately acquire as much as a 30 per cent shareholding, although there is no indication that Fenway Sports Group is actively seeking to sell control of the club.
Speculation surrounding FSG’s long-term plans has persisted for several years, but those close to the ownership group have sought to downplay suggestions that a full sale is imminent.
An FSG spokesperson confirmed that discussions are taking place.
They said: “An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club.”
The proposed transaction is believed to follow a similar structure to the investment made by Dynasty Equity in 2023, when Liverpool were reportedly valued at more than $4.5bn.
Liverpool are now preparing for another new era after appointing former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as head coach following Arne Slot’s departure earlier this summer
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Fenway Sports Group, led by John Henry, has owned Liverpool since completing its takeover in 2010, rescuing the club during a period of severe financial uncertainty.
During FSG’s tenure, Liverpool have re-established themselves as one of Europe’s dominant clubs, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
However, the ownership has also faced criticism from supporters at various points, particularly over footballing decisions and wider strategic direction.
Liverpool are now preparing for another new era after appointing former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as head coach following Arne Slot’s departure earlier this summer.
