Amanda Staveley, the former co-owner of Newcastle United, is reportedly making moves to buy into Tottenham Hotspur. Sources reveal that Staveley is backed by “serious money” from wealthy individuals and investors in the Middle East. Having acquired shares in Newcastle in 2021, Staveley is now assembling a new funding team to take an initial stake in Spurs, with the intention of eventually acquiring more of the club.
Tottenham Hotspur, valued at an impressive £2.42 billion by global media company Forbes, presents an attractive investment opportunity. Staveley’s bid for a 25 percent stake in the club could cost her approximately £650 million. Interestingly, she would not need to sell her shares in Newcastle before investing in Tottenham, as her current holding in the Tyneside club falls within the permissible limit of 9.9 percent ownership in two clubs.
ENIC, the majority owner of Tottenham Hotspur, is owned by the family trust of 87-year-old Joe Lewis and includes chairman Daniel Levy. There are indications that they may be open to selling a portion of their stake to Staveley’s group. This potential deal could not only provide a significant financial boost to the club but also bring fresh perspectives and resources to help Tottenham achieve their ambitions.
Amanda Staveley’s previous involvement in football ownership includes her role in facilitating the £210 million sale of Manchester City to Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi in 2008. Her track record in brokering high-profile deals demonstrates her ability to navigate complex negotiations and attract substantial investment.
Staveley’s departure from Newcastle United in July, alongside her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, came nearly three years after assisting the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund in acquiring the club from Mike Ashley. Staveley has expressed her desire not to impede Newcastle’s progress, stating that her decisions are driven by what is best for the club. Her departure from Newcastle, therefore, signifies an opportunity for her to explore new ventures and potentially contribute to the growth and success of other football clubs.
Overall, Amanda Staveley’s bid to buy into Tottenham Hotspur with the support of Middle Eastern backers represents a significant development in the football ownership landscape. With her previous experience in brokering high-value deals in the sport and her reputation as a shrewd businesswoman, Staveley’s involvement could bring fresh investment and perspectives to Tottenham Hotspur, helping the club reach new heights. This potential acquisition has the potential to reshape the club’s future and create exciting opportunities for both Tottenham and Staveley herself.