West Ham United is understood to have reached an agreement in principle to be acquired by a Middle Eastern backer, in a development that emerged late on Tuesday night and was confirmed in a brief statement issued shortly after midnight on 1st April. The company are believed to have made their money supplying pitted dates around the world and believe their expertise in dried fruits could be of benefit to the Hammers commercial operations.
According to Claret & Hugh sources the deal has been progressing “quietly but constructively” for several months. The sum paid has been undisclosed yet is believed to be approximately £800m, taking into account the clubs existing debts, making it one of the most expensive football takeovers in Premier League history.
The Board were reluctant to invest in the club during the summer, and with a proposed backlash from fans from player sales, were in unanimous agreement over the offer.
As part of the proposed structure, Empress Karren Brady is expected to remain in her role as Chair. The consortium is said to have emphasised the importance of continuity during the transition period, describing Brady as “A popular TV figure and an asset to the club’s operational stability.”
Our sources also suggested that the consortium had been impressed by Brady’s familiarity with the club’s long‑term commercial arrangements, while one of the incoming board is also known to be a fan of the BBC 1 show The Apprentice, having hosted one of the corporate away days in a recent show where candidates travelled to El Gouna, Egypt.
Early indications suggest the incoming group intends to explore opportunities to expand the club’s international profile, and are not ruling out a training ground relocation, as were not impressed with the current facilities at Rush Green. A source revealed “The group thought the portacabins were Air B&B holiday motorhomes”.
This morning Supporter groups responded cautiously, with several calling for clarity on the consortium’s long‑term intentions. Some fans expressed scepticism regarding the timing of the announcement.
Industry analysts acknowledged that the unusual timing and the presence of several ambiguous phrases in the documentation had raised questions about the seriousness of the development.
The Premier League is expected to review the proposed transaction under its standard ownership and directors’ test. A league official, speaking anonymously, remarked that “further information may become available after midday,” though declined to elaborate.
While a club official reacting to supporters queries, suggested supporters “check the calendar before drawing any conclusions.”
So whu has a date with new owners? Pull the other one it’s got balls (wrinkled) on.
Best April fools joke I have seen in a long time, especially liked the idea of amassing a fortune from pitted dates! 😁 If only though, if only!
April 1st
Luckily it’s the 1st of April
So West Ham fans want Sullivan and co to sell up at any cost, a deal gets done and we are sceptical?
That’s the April fools right there
Posted at 11.30 so methinks Empress Brady is connected to April 1 but its blimmin funny.
Nice April Fool 😂😂
What’s the date again ?