Things are finally looking up for Sheffield Wednesday and three takeover candidates have now reportedly taken a £50m step towards purchasing the club.
The Dejphon Chansiri era is over at long last and those at Hilsborough can finally breathe again. Fans have flocked to the club shop in support of their side and both staff and players have even been paid a day early.
Even when sat on -6 points in the Championship after entering administration, the atmosphere at Hillsborough this weekend is set to represent a club coming together to at least celebrate the end of the worst times.
A statement from Kris Wigfield, of joint-administrators Begbies Traynor, thanked fans for how they’ve supported the club and played a major part in their successful attempt to pay players and staff on time.
“This marks a major step forward in stabilising the club’s operations and rebuilding trust both internally and with our supporters.
“We couldn’t have achieved this without the incredible backing of you Wednesdayites. Your return to Hillsborough, the surge in merchandise and ticket sales, and your continued belief in the club have made this possible.”
Survival on the pitch is largely unthinkable given that they sit 14 points adrift at the bottom of the Championship, but there’s been major concern that the Owls wouldn’t survive off the pitch in recent months. Now, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Wigfield revealed earlier this week: “As always, you get a lot of interested parties that probably aren’t going to meet the criteria, but within the numerous inquiries we’ve had, we certainly think that there are already four or five interested parties that look like the real deal.
“There are two criteria that new owners basically need to satisfy to then open dialogue and there to be an opportunity where they can make an offer.”
What’s more, reports are now suggesting that three interested parties have taken a crucial £50m step towards buying the club.
Sheffield Wednesday candidates take £50m step
According to BBC Sheffield’s Rob Staton, three candidates have now given proof of funds to Sheffield Wednesday worth £50m in what is a vital step towards a potential takeover.
It remains to be seen who those three candidates are, but two names that have been mentioned this week are John McEvoy and John Textor.
The latter sold his Crystal Palace shares in the summer and could now make a return to English football after reportedly making contact with those at Hillsborough. That said, the Owls should act with plenty of caution after the American billionaire very nearly took Lyon to Ligue 2 thanks to financial issues.
McEvoy, meanwhile, represents more of an unknown option. The American owns ice hockey clubs and baseball clubs and would be stepping into football for the first time. Alas, with more expected to provide proof of funds, he may have to get in line to buy Sheffield Wednesday.
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