There has been a twist to the tale in the Southampton takeover saga which looks set to run for another while yet.
According to The Athletic, proposed American buyer Joseph DaGrosa’s period of exclusivity has ended, meaning he no longer has a monopoly over talks with current owner Gao Jisheng. There are reportedly other interested parties beyond DaGrosa in buying the club, including further American interest, as well as some from Europe and the Middle East.
A separate American party reportedly holds a ‘strong chance’ of securing exclusivity rights over a takeover, indicating that there is at least a reasonably proven level of serious interest, with the current owner unlikely to sanction such rights without first having proof of an incoming offer.
DaGrosa has previously said that he wants Gao to lower his asking price for the club. The Chinese businessman paid £160m for a controlling 80% stake in Southampton in 2017 from Katharina Liebherr, and it is unlikely that he would accept a loss on that figure. [The Athletic]
The prospective American investor has warned that he could look elsewhere unless Gao caves in. Crystal Palace, Newcastle and West Ham have been touted as viable alternatives if a Southampton deal collapses.
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The increased interest from multiple parties in buying Southampton can only be a good thing for fans who want to see a change in ownership.
With at least one party believed to be in a more advanced position to compete with DaGrosa over formal talks, negotiations could intensify in the not-too-distant future.
DaGrosa appears no closer to buying the club from when his interest started six months ago, but the threat of competition could accelerate the process.
