Claret & Hugh has learnt this morning that West Ham shareholder Albert Tripp Smith has been in discussions with potential investors in the club.
Tripp Smith, who owns 8% of West Ham shares, flew into the UK last week as C&H previously reported, although the purpose of his visit was unclear. We have since discovered that during his stay, the founder of GSO Capital Partners entertained two potential US-based investors.
Tripp-Smith flew to London for West Ham talks
At this stage, it is not known whether the interest relates to part ownership through the Gold family shares, or a full buyout. However, it is understood that the 60-year-old’s visit did involve West Ham business, and the club were made aware of his arrival. Tripp Smith has a history of brokering large business deals and has a history in dealing with acquisitions and distressed assets.
There is rumoured to be growing concern from both Daniel Kretinsky and Tripp Smith following recent fan protests and the vote of no confidence.
As has been relayed to C&H on several occasions, the stumbling block in any sale remains David Sullivan’s valuation of his own shares rather than any lack of potential buyers.
The quicker we have new owners the better the club will be the fans are so loyal and stuck by West Ham .it is time for the Hammers to give something back Sullivan is in it for the money not west ham
Sullivan should sell up he won’t invest in the property manager , the team or facilities. Despite being a billionaire he wants More from the club rather than invest to make us competitive again .
Do hope that we are not about to be asset stripped by terminal ‘investors’.
These people are the lowest of the low life.
Is West Ham or perhaps one of it’s shareholders a distressed asset?