Liverpool supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly has called for greater transparency over a reported bid by a consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to acquire a significant minority stake in the Premier League club.
The group urged Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), to put the interests of the club and its supporters first amid reports that the consortium is closing in on a deal for 30 percent of Liverpool stake.
The investment group is led by Amit Bhatia, son-in-law of Indian steel billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, and also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin and Bezos.
FSG confirmed in July that it had received an approach from Bhatia’s consortium.
However, a report by Sky News on Monday claimed the group was nearing an agreement to acquire roughly one-third of Liverpool, with FSG potentially preparing to announce the transaction as early as this week.
Supporters demand transparency
Spirit of Shankly has written to Liverpool requesting further information about the proposed deal and a meeting to discuss its potential implications for the club.
‘Putting the interests of LFC and its supporters first is fundamental to us all,’ the supporters’ group said.
‘The latest report of a 30 percent sale and the consortium set up to buy it is significant. The ownership and custodianship of our club is paramount to SoS and all supporters.
‘We have witnessed similar sales at other clubs resulting in notable changes in the running of that club and football operations, leading to decisions and behaviours that many would not want to see at Liverpool.’
The group’s concerns centre on the potential impact of a new minority shareholder on Liverpool’s ownership structure, decision-making and football operations.
Bezos-led consortium targets Liverpool stake
Bezos, 62, is among the world’s wealthiest individuals, with Forbes estimating his fortune at more than $280 billion. Saverin’s wealth is estimated at $33 billion.
The Amazon founder has previously explored opportunities to acquire stakes in major American sports franchises, including the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, although neither deal materialised.
A transaction involving Liverpool would make Bezos one of the latest high-profile billionaires to invest in English football.
Liverpool’s value has risen significantly since FSG acquired the club in 2010, with reports valuing the Premier League champions at around £4.4 billion ($6 billion) in the proposed transaction.
FSG would, however, retain control of Liverpool under the reported structure.
FSG faces scrutiny over ownership
The potential investment comes as Liverpool continue to operate under FSG’s ownership, with the American sports investment group having explored external investment while maintaining overall control of the club.
Supporters are now seeking assurances that any new investment will not alter Liverpool’s identity or influence decisions affecting the club’s sporting operations.
Liverpool won the Premier League title in the 2024/25 season under Arne Slot, but the Dutchman was dismissed in May following a turbulent campaign, with Andoni Iraola subsequently appointed as his replacement.