Liverpool are edging closer to a significant change in their ownership structure, with a consortium featuring Amazon founder Jeff Bezos understood to be nearing an agreement to acquire a 30% stake in the club from Fenway Sports Group.

The proposed investment follows several months of negotiations between the group of investors and FSG. Amit Bhatia is leading the consortium, with the businessman also known for his involvement with Queens Park Rangers. Bhatia is the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal and previously held both a shareholding and a directorial position at QPR.

Among the other prominent figures involved is Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin. The consortium is expected to commit approximately £1.35bn to the transaction. While the principal terms have effectively been settled, completion of the deal could still require as much as four weeks.

Bezos Set for First Football Investment

For Bezos, the Liverpool deal would represent his first direct investment in a football club. The Amazon founder has previously explored opportunities to acquire NFL teams, but has not previously completed an investment of this nature in football.

Forbes estimates Bezos’ personal wealth at roughly $257bn (£190bn), placing him fourth on its list of the world’s wealthiest individuals. Saverin, meanwhile, is reported to have a fortune of around $32bn.

As part of the Liverpool transaction, Bezos is expected to receive equity in the club. Deloitte has provided advisory services during the process.

At 62, Bezos remains executive chairman of Amazon after giving up responsibility for the company’s daily operations when he left the chief executive position five years ago. During his time at the helm, Amazon expanded well beyond its original retail business, establishing a substantial presence in entertainment and acquiring a wide range of sporting broadcast rights.

Amazon’s Growing Sports Portfolio

Amazon has already developed a strong connection with football through its streaming business. The company previously held the UK broadcasting rights for 20 Premier League matches per season over a six-year period, with that agreement running until the end of last year.

Its sporting portfolio also extends beyond England. Amazon broadcasts Champions League matches in a number of European markets and owns rights to selected NFL games in the United States.

The company’s growing involvement in live sport has helped make its streaming operation an increasingly important part of its wider entertainment business.

FSG Remains in Control of Liverpool

FSG completed its purchase of Liverpool in 2010 and has since overseen one of the most successful periods in the club’s modern history. During its ownership, Liverpool have secured two Premier League championships.

The proposed sale would not amount to FSG giving up control of the club. Instead, the consortium would acquire a substantial minority position, with FSG continuing as the controlling shareholder.

The American ownership group has already brought another outside investor into Liverpool’s structure. In 2023, FSG sold a 3% holding to US private equity firm Dynasty Equity.

Major Changes Around Anfield

The investment talks come during a particularly eventful summer for Liverpool, with significant alterations taking place both on and off the pitch.

Andoni Iraola has taken over as head coach from Arne Slot, marking a change in the club’s technical leadership. Liverpool have also seen Mohamed Salah depart after leaving as a free agent, with the forward subsequently joining Trabzonspor.

There has also been movement within FSG’s executive structure. Michael Edwards has stepped away from his position as the group’s chief executive officer.

With a major ownership investment now approaching completion alongside changes in the dugout, squad and executive ranks, Liverpool are entering a new chapter under FSG’s continued control.