Derby County nears investment deal with Saudi billionaire Turki Alalshikh; EFL clears review

Hupu Football News | July 30th

Derby County is set to receive a significant injection of funds from Saudi sports promoter Turki Alalshikh, according to The Telegraph, boosting the club's spending capacity ahead of the new season.

With just over two weeks until the start of the new league campaign, the Championship club hopes regulators will approve its investment agreement with the boxing billionaire next week.

The Daily Telegraph's sports desk has learned that the English Football League (EFL) has completed its review of Alalshikh and determined that the deal complies with relevant regulations.

Final approval rests with the Independent Football Regulator, with a decision expected next week. Sources indicate growing confidence that Derby County will be given the green light.

Key Details

• Derby County is pushing for formal approval as soon as possible.
• Alalshikh is prepared to provide substantial funds to help the club strengthen its competitiveness for a return to the Premier League.
• Although financial regulatory rules impose a cap on spending, the deal will significantly enhance the club's ability to bring in new signings and improve facilities.
• Alalshikh has been in negotiations with Derby County since May and previously owned football clubs in Spain and Egypt.

About Turki Alalshikh

The 44-year-old serves as chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, with his influence primarily stemming from the boxing world. Last year, he was also linked to a potential investment deal with Bristol City.

(Photo of Turki Alalshikh with Cristiano Ronaldo and Zuffa Boxing co-founder Dana White)

Club Ownership and Management

Derby County's current owner, David Clowes, helped the club avoid liquidation in the summer of 2022 and has since been seeking external financial support. Over the past few years, Clowes has expressed willingness to sell up to 80% of his shares to suitable and credible investors. However, he plans to remain as club chairman once the deal is completed.

The club is currently managed by former player John Eustace, with the team finishing eighth in the Championship last season, just four points off the playoff places.

Transfer Activity

Regardless of whether Alalshikh's investment deal goes through, Eustace continues to push forward with recruitment. The club is close to re-signing Ipswich Town striker Sammy Szmodics.

Derby County has already brought in:

• Bobby Clark
• Charlie Taylor
• Filip Bilbija

Szmodics, who was on loan at the club last season, is expected to have his return confirmed in the coming days.

Historical Context

Derby County's last Premier League appearance was in the 2007-08 season, when they were relegated with a record-low 11 points.

Official Statements

The English Football League, the Independent Football Regulator, and Derby County all declined to comment.

Source: The Daily Telegraph