The fourth-richest man in the world, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is part of a consortium in advanced talks to buy a 30% stake in Liverpool. With a personal fortune of about $257bn, the potential investment would value the club at £4.5bn – 13 times its worth when Fenway Sports Group (FSG) bought it in 2010. Supporters remain cautious, scarred by the Tom Hicks and George Gillette era, and want clarity on the consortium’s plans and intentions.\n\nFootball finance expert Kieran Maguire called it a great deal for FSG: “They generate more than £1bn and still keep control – best of both worlds.” The Premier League’s Squad Cost Ratio rules mean Liverpool likely won’t massively increase transfer spending; funds are tied to commercial income, not owner wealth.

The deal could be a straight share sale by FSG, so no new money for the club itself.\n\nFan group Spirit of Shankly raised concerns about what the consortium gets in return and whether it is a ‘trophy’ buy. They also worry about Amazon’s labor record, citing union disputes and working conditions. Liverpool season-ticket holder Gareth Roberts questioned if Bezos would simply ramp up the club’s brand to maximize profit.\n\nMaguire added that if Bezos and co. enjoy the kudos of part-owning such a brand, a full acquisition becomes possible “if the price is right.” The deal continues a trend of U.S. investment in the Premier League, with 11 of 20 clubs majority-owned by Americans.