Qatari investor Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani is plotting a shock move to buy West Ham United after losing out of Man United takeover race.
According to reports, Sheikh Jassim is hoping to cash in on an offer by one of West Ham United shareholders Vanssa Gold who is willing to sell her shares.
Vanessa Gold has 25% stake in West Ham United which she reportedly inherited from her late father David Gold who passed on in January 2023.
Sources close to Vanessa Gold have revealed she wants to sell only 10% of her stake but could be forced to sell all her 25% if she could struck a deal with a good buyer with a good offer.
According to The Times, Sheikh Jassim is considered a favorite to buy Vanessa’s stake at West Ham and is ready for a lucratively cashed bid for all 25%.
Gold said in a statement: “I would consider selling a proportion of our shares to the right partner.
“I have spoken to each of the other three major shareholders at West Ham United, David Sullivan, Daniel Kretinsky and Tripp Smith, who have been very supportive.
“Any transaction to purchase some of our shares will be with my father’s legacy at the forefront of my mind which, of course, prioritises his beloved West Ham United.
“I have appointed Rothschild & Co to advise us on any discussions and will keep the other shareholders, the club and our supporters updated on any significant developments.”
Sheikh Jassim failed in his takeover bid for Manchester United as the Glazers demanded an outlandish £6bn offer to sell the club. The Qataris backed out slamming the Glazers of using them to inflate Man United value and then dealing Sir Jim Ratcliffe for a partial takeover.
After withdrawing their bid for Manchester United, West Ham is the second London club that have attracted the interest of the Glazers. They were also reportedly interested in buying Tottenham Hotspur.
