Liverpool's Merseyside rivals Everton confirm major takeover announcement

Liverpool’s fierce rivals Everton have confirmed a new agreement has been reached to complete a takeover.

Toffees majority owner Farhad Moshiri has brokered a deal to sell his 94 per cent stake to the Friedkin Group. The American firm, headed by Texan billionaire Dan Friedkin, revived their interest after pulling the plug in July.

John Textor, the co-owner of Crystal Palace, declared his interest in buying Everton. But the Friedkin Group came back to the table last week and will now seek approval from the Premier League, FA and Financial Conduct Authority, although it is unlikely to be a problem.

An Everton statement said: “Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group confirm that they have reached agreement over the terms of the sale of Blue Heaven Holdings’ majority stake in Everton Football Club. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval, including from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.

A spokesperson for The Friedkin Group said: "We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club. We are focused on securing the necessary approvals to complete the transaction. We look forward to providing stability to the club, and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock."

The Friedkin Group already own Italian side AS Roma. They are set to become the latest American owners of a Premier League team. Fenway Sports Group have been at the Liverpool helm since 2010, with eight major trophies won in that time and the club’s position restored to the upper echelons of European football.

Meanwhile, Manchester United (the Glaziers), Arsenal (Stan Kroenke), Chelsea (Todd Boeyly and Clearlake Capital) and Aston Villa (Wes Edens) are among nine clubs owned by Americans.

Liverpool will face Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on 7 December. The Friedkin Group could be in charge of the Blues by that stage.