Sheffield United in takeover talks with US-based Silicon Valley consortium

Sheffield United players celebrate their return to the Premier League. Photo: Shutterstock/Greig Cowie

U.S. Silicon Consortium Private Valley investors have discussed a takeover of Sheffield United following their promotion to the Premier League.

A group of equity fund investors are considering various projects, including the purchase of Yorkshire club owned by Prince Abdullah, who earlier this season was in talks with Nigerian businessman Dozi Mmobuozi for a £115m sale.

The investors want to remain anonymous until then, according to a source close to the US consortium until the need arises to reveal himself, but negotiations with the club took place. They have also appointed an English technical advisor to liaise with the potential deal.

“This is a Silicon Valley investment fund that is exploring options, potentially in the Premier League,” the source said.

Sheffield United returned to the top flight on their second try, finishing second in the Championship.

Before their promotion was closed, Mmobuozi was interested in taking over them. Although the talks did not lead to a takeover, Mmobuozy showed his intentions by spending over £8m campaigning in a potential takeover.

Last month he told The Times in a statement that he had made the takeover, insisting: “I want to state categorically that I have not withdrawn my bid to acquire Sheffield United Football Club. Those close to the potential deal say relations between Mmobuozi and Prince Abdullah have been hot and cold.

After these talks, Prince Abdullah was on the Bramall Lane pitch celebrating his return to the Premier league under manager Paul Heckingbottom. According to Deloitte, the club is guaranteed £170m from broadcast funds plus parachute payments in the event of relegation.

If the new consortium succeeds in gaining control of the club, they will add to the number of clubs The Premier League is owned by the Americans.

Chelsea are the latest to be taken over by US owners and Liverpool are owned by Fenway Sports Group, although the Glazer family is considering selling Manchester United.