Liverpool supporters' group Spirit of Shankly (SoS) said the interests of the club and its fans must come first after reports emerged that an investment consortium involving Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is close to finalizing a deal to buy a significant stake in the Merseyside club.
Sky News reported that Bezos is part of a group of investors led by Amit Bhatia, son-in-law of Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal. The group also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.
Liverpool's current owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), confirmed approaches from Bhatia's group in July. Sky News reported on Monday that the consortium is “closing in on a deal to acquire roughly one-third of Liverpool's shares,” with FSG preparing to announce the development “within the week.”
Bezos, 62, is one of the world's richest individuals with an estimated net worth of over $280 billion, according to Forbes, while Saverin's fortune is valued at $33 billion. Bezos had previously been linked with bids for the NFL's Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders but ultimately did not pursue those interests.
In a statement, SoS said they have written to Liverpool requesting clarity and a meeting to discuss potential changes. “Putting the interests of LFC and its supporters first is fundamental to all of us,” the statement read. “The latest news regarding the sale of 30% of shares and the consortium formed to purchase them is a significant development. Ownership and governance of the club are paramount to SoS and all supporters. We have seen similar deals at other clubs lead to substantial changes in how the club is run and operated, creating decisions and behaviors many would not wish to see at Liverpool.”
Liverpool recently won the Premier League title in the 2024-25 season under manager Arne Slot, but the Dutch tactician was dismissed in May following a turbulent campaign. Andoni Iraola is now in charge of the team.
