The investment company Sportsbank confirmed Wednesday, through a statement, that it has reached an agreement with Eagle Football Holdings Limited to make a strategic investment that will include a period of exclusivity. This move strengthens Sportsbank’s position in the multi-club football arena and aligns with Eagle’s impending IPO in the U.S. market.

AN INVESTMENT OF 240 MILLION EUROS

According to information from L’Équipe, Sportsbank’s investment would involve a financial commitment of approximately £200 million – around €240 million. This move consolidates Sportsbank’s interest in Eagle Football Holdings, the group led by John Textor, which manages assets such as Olympique Lyon, Botafogo and a 45% stake in Crystal Palace FC.

At the same time, Eagle Football Holdings had received a letter of intent to purchase from a Saudi group interested in acquiring its stake in Crystal Palace. However, if negotiations with Sportsbank progress and it joins Eagle’s capital, the sale of the 45% stake in the London club may not go through.

SPORTSBANK’S INTEREST

Sportsbank, according to the same sources, has shown a specific interest in acquiring Crystal Palace as part of its investment strategy. This detail will largely depend on how Eagle Football Holdings is valued at its IPO, expected in the coming months.

This strategic alliance between Sportsbank and Eagle Football Holdings could redefine the landscape of multi-club groups and inspire other similar organizations, as well as bodies such as UEFA and FIFA to review their policies with respect to these issues so that fair play continues to be enforced both on and off the pitch.