Alan Biggs on the ongoing Sheffield United takeover and the reasons why it might be taking so long to complete.
One thing is certain about January: whether a takeover occurs or not, whether there is more money or less money. Chris Wilder will not do anything that disrupts the strong camaraderie of his current Sheffield United side.
Obviously, new ownership might raise the bar on the type of player the Blades manager targets. But not in the quantity he prefers. Two, maybe three new players, all experienced, and that’ll be it (assuming no unwelcome departures).
There may yet be a transformation in the club’s structure at the top, but this will not extend to the dressing room; Wilder’s demands are the polar opposite. To build carefully and protect his possessions regardless of his budget. And, as always, the character and calibre of players joining the club will be carefully examined.
The precariously situated intended buy-out from COH Sports should have been completed by now. But there has always been visible strain and anxiety beneath the surface. Wouldn’t it be happening right now or have happened already?
What is left to do? The price was decided upon some time ago, and EFL approval to proceed was granted. Nonetheless, even in the face of apparently hopeful remarks from both parties last week, there was skepticism in the air.
If it was a formality, why did the prospective owners feel compelled to announce the EFL approval? Why did they also mention the need to conclude the deal fast from here in order to fund January signings?
One motivation, I believe, was to elicit a public response from the club, which came quickly but promised a “update” rather than announcing completion.
Crucially, the primary issue in the backdrop was not addressed. According to a recent post here, the problems stem from the team outgrowing the fee agreed upon last summer (reportedly £105 million). At the time, there was no firm anticipation of a promotion bid, let alone a lucrative immediate return to the Premier League.
Unless the “agreed” price was legally binding, Prince Abdullah was likely to reconsider or try to raise the price, putting the ball back in the Americans’ court. If they walk away, a blame game is likely to ensue.
However, Abdullah would have a difficult time convincing Blades fans to blame someone else. After two previous shambolic takeover sagas, which some believe were designed to insulate him from investment demands in the transfer market, he must either kick the club to the curb or sell for whatever he can get.
Speculating on staying to earn a higher price, possibly in the Premier League, on the heels of a manager-led turnaround will not sit well with many. Understandably so.
Furthermore, it cannot be used as an occasion or excuse for the owner to abdicate his responsibility to keep the club moving forward, both now and in the future, if he remains in control.
Similarly, it is an issue of trust that the incoming group has the financial clout and goodwill to make a difference. However, the EFL’s thorough checks, which are very appreciated in this regard, definitely suggest that they do. It appears to be a much better route forward.
I may have written this before. Does Prince Abdullah really want to sell? Let us see now.
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