Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), have shown interest in acquiring several clubs this year, with recent reports suggesting they are now eyeing a takeover of French side FC Girondins de Bordeaux.
Bordeaux, a historically significant club in France with six league titles to their name, has faced tough times and currently plays in Ligue 2 after being relegated. The club’s financial struggles have also put them at risk of further relegation to the Championnat National, the third tier of French football.
FSG is reportedly ready to invest €42 million to stabilize Bordeaux’s finances and ensure their participation in Ligue 2 for the 2024/25 season. Local media outlet France Bleu has reported that FSG is “very serious” about acquiring Bordeaux, with “exclusive discussions” underway between FSG and the current owners.
Key representatives from both FSG and Bordeaux recently attended a hearing with the DNCG, the financial regulatory body of French football, marking a significant step towards the acquisition. Notably, FSG’s John W. Henry and Julian Ward were present alongside Bordeaux’s owner and president Gerard Lopez, along with FSG’s legal representative.
The Times has also confirmed FSG’s intentions, indicating that the group is expanding its football portfolio.
This potential purchase raises questions about its impact on Liverpool. FSG has been linked with other investments, such as an interest in Brazilian club Vasco da Gama, suggesting a broader strategy to own multiple clubs. This expansion would not negatively affect Liverpool; in fact, it could benefit the Premier League club by providing a platform for young players to gain experience at Bordeaux. Additionally, top talents from Bordeaux could potentially move to Liverpool.
Owning multiple clubs is becoming a common trend among major European teams, and FSG appears to be aligning with this strategy to bolster their influence in the football world.
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