Jeff Bezos-led consortium reportedly takes 38% stake in Liverpool

A consortium involving Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reportedly bought almost 40% of Premier League club Liverpool, with the investment believed to be closer to 38%, according to The Athletic.

The deal was initially understood to involve 1892 Holdings purchasing one-third of the club from Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool’s owners. However, The Athletic reported on Tuesday that the consortium’s holding is nearer to 38%.

The agreement also includes an option for 1892 Holdings to acquire a controlling interest in Liverpool during the next 12 months. That option does not represent a formal commitment to complete such a purchase.

FSG, the United States-based ownership group, announced on Friday that it had reached an agreement with 1892 Holdings. The consortium is led by British-Indian millionaire Amit Bhatia and includes Bezos and Eduardo Saverin, the co-founder of Facebook.

Bezos is estimated to be worth $256bn and is regarded as the fourth-richest person in the world. The reported Liverpool investment would be his first involvement in a sports team.

The American businessman has previously been linked with potential purchases of National Football League franchises the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, although neither deal took place.

Bhatia, who is the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, spent 18 years as a co-owner of Queens Park Rangers. He stepped away from the Championship club after his connection to Liverpool became publicly known.

FSG purchased Liverpool for $406m in 2010. Three years ago, it sold a minority share of about 3% to the global sports investment company Dynasty Equity.

Liverpool’s new investment comes shortly before the club begin their Premier League campaign away to Newcastle on Sunday. They are seeking a response after finishing fifth in the top flight last season.

That disappointing campaign resulted in Arne Slot being dismissed as Liverpool manager, only 12 months after he had guided the club to the Premier League title during his first season in charge following the departure of Jurgen Klopp.

With several weeks remaining before the Premier League transfer window closes, the fresh investment could provide additional support for new Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola as he attempts to improve his squad ahead of the new season.

Liverpool have spent about £94m since the end of last season, bringing in Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz.

Iraola was pictured reacting during Liverpool’s pre-season friendly against Como at Anfield in Liverpool.