Football finance expert rubbishes takeover claim

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire has accused PAI Capital of talking rubbish in their statement that there was no need to wait until after the transfer window to launch another bid

The investment group tweeted on 27 August to say they would postpone their second takeover approach until after the 31 August transfer cut-off.

They reasoned that this was in the best interest of the club and that West Ham fans can expect a bid to materialise next week.

Speaking to Football Insider he said: “You would have expected a greater degree of professionalism if they were putting together a bid that is going to be A) acceptable and B) achievable.

“I don’t see what difference waiting until after the transfer window shuts would make.

“If we go back to Man City being acquired by Sheikh Mansour, that was on the last day of the window.

“If they were at an advanced stage of negotiations, all parties would be advised as to the plans of West Ham.

“Also, PAI are an investment people. They aren’t necessarily football people in terms of their knowledge of recruitment.

“That should be delegated to the appropriate people at the club.”

PAI have in fact been discussing their next bid for several weeks on various media channels but the reality is nothing is in sight.

Tony Cottee has been revealing very little in a series of interviews and it will be no surprise whatsoever – indeed most are expecting – their plans to face and die.

So far there is a disputed claim they have shown proof of funds and regular broadcasts through whatever media outlet is interested that they will make another bid.

Move on.