Sheffield United in Takeover Talks with American Consortium

Sheffield United is currently engaged in takeover discussions with an American consortium led by Steven H. Rosen, a prominent private equity executive. Rosen is the co-founder of Resilience Capital Partners, a firm primarily focused on investing in the manufacturing and aerospace sectors. The company has reportedly facilitated over £500 million in investments.

Rosen is at the forefront of negotiations on behalf of the US consortium and is in talks with the current owner of Sheffield United, Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, as reported by unnamed sources.

The football club faced a financial setback following its relegation from the Premier League last season. However, it is currently positioned second in the Championship, suggesting a strong push for promotion back to the top-flight league.

Prince Abdullah has been actively seeking a buyer for at least 18 months. Previously, he was in negotiations with Nigerian entrepreneur Dozy Mmobuosi. Unfortunately, this potential deal fell through in 2023 due to allegations that Mmobuosi lacked the necessary financial resources. Subsequently, US authorities fined Mmobuosi $250 million for alleged fraud, casting further doubt on the previous negotiation attempts.

Lazard, a financial advisory and asset management firm, is reportedly advising Sheffield United on the possible sale to Rosen’s consortium.

Should the talks with Rosen succeed, Sheffield United would become part of a growing list of English football clubs with American involvement. Currently, half of the Premier League clubs, including prominent names such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, either have American majority ownership or an American as the largest shareholder.

In the Championship, three of the top six clubs also have American investors, who are likewise initiating ambitious projects in the lower leagues.