John Textor might be able to buy Everton after all as Crystal Palace sale update emerges

Everton could be offered a lifeline by one man who it seemed had been well and truly ruled out of the takeover process.

From a post by The Guardian journalist Ed Aarons on X [25 July], John Textor – majority shareholder of Crystal Palace, Lyon and Botafogo among others – is reportedly looking to sell his Palace shares, with 14 investors interested in an agreement.

Textor had previously been interested in a deal with Farhad Moshiri over the acquisition of his controlling stake in the Toffees – but was denied the opportunity due to Premier League rules and never entered into talks [Telegraph].

The collapse of the Friedkin Group’s proposed takeover at Goodison Park has now prompted other potential investors to ramp up their interest.

Everton to consider Textor?

Whilst Textor is understandably looking at other potential avenues in English football, the collapse of Dan Friedkin’s deal with Moshiri could trigger a reconsideration.

The Premier League ownership ruling stipulates that controlling shares cannot be held in more than one of the league’s clubs at any one time – but should the American businessman sell his 45% of the Eagles, an opportunity could arise.

Acknowledging that no major discussions with Textor were held – in part due to his Palace ownership and also due to separate periods of exclusivity with 777 Partners and later Friedkin – it still appears unlikely, but a series of sharp corners have already been turned in this protracted saga.

Understand that there are 14 investors who have indicated an interest in buying John Textor’s shares in Crystal Palace. Unclear at this stage whether his 40% will be sold to one or more of them. Textor understood to be close to buying more than 80% of another English club

— Ed Aarons (@ed_aarons) July 25, 2024

Toffees insider Alan Myers has already admitted this week that he would not be surprised to see Textor look to launch a proposal.

Moshiri has appeared reluctant to consider Textor alongside other bidders with a priority given to those who have transpired not to strike the crucial signature on the deal, but his options may be forced to broaden.

In other Everton news, an update emerges on the club’s pursuit of Wilfried Gnonto.