Recent reports have suggested that Saudi Arabia may be interested in a future takeover of Liverpool FC. Three years after the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired Newcastle United, a deal that has faced renewed scrutiny due to leaked WhatsApp messages seemingly undermining claims of a separation between the PIF and the Saudi government, there is now speculation that they are setting their sights on an even more prominent football club.
Miguel Delaney of The Independent reported on Tuesday that Saudi Arabia is considering an acquisition of a higher-profile team. According to Delaney, there is a “feeling within the game” that PIF is “ultimately eyeing a bigger club,” with rumors circulating about both Liverpool and Chelsea. Barcelona has also been mentioned as a potential target, given their ongoing financial difficulties.
Potential Saudi Takeover Could Be Unwelcome for Liverpool Fans
While Fenway Sports Group (FSG) is not without its flaws, many Liverpool supporters would likely prefer to continue under their ownership rather than see the club taken over by a state with a controversial human rights record. Even though a PIF-led acquisition could bring substantial investment that surpasses what the current ownership can provide, Liverpool has remained competitive at the highest levels of football, consistently challenging for and winning major trophies. The current regime, despite some past missteps, maintains a far cleaner reputation than would be associated with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi state.
Moreover, Liverpool fans would likely be concerned about the club becoming involved in the controversies surrounding associated party transactions that have impacted other clubs. For example, Manchester City has faced legal scrutiny regarding their financial practices, with Newcastle United controversially supporting City in a recent case against the Premier League. The potential for Liverpool to get caught up in similar legal disputes would not sit well with a fanbase that takes pride in the club’s values and history.
A Takeover at Odds with Liverpool’s Ideals
Liverpool supporters are deeply committed to certain principles that extend beyond the football pitch, and a takeover by the Saudi state would conflict with those ideals. The club’s fanbase has a long tradition of activism and ethical values, which would clash with the human rights concerns associated with Saudi Arabia’s leadership. For many, the thought of the Reds falling under Saudi ownership would be a deeply troubling prospect.
While some may see the allure of significant financial investment, the ethical implications and potential reputational damage would likely make such a takeover unpalatable for many Liverpool fans. The hope among supporters is that any potential sale would keep the club’s core values intact and steer clear of owners whose associations could tarnish Liverpool’s legacy.
