There is already a long list of suitors that have gathered to try and purchase Everton.
With radio silence all throughout 777 Partners’ bid to assume control, many fans feared the worst, that due to their abhorrent financial position and regression on the pitch, they were no longer a desirable asset.
It looked like they were destined to endure a summer laden with takeover links to unfit alternatives, however it became clear that, despite their struggles, the Toffees have not completely lost their allure.
Whether it be global billionaires or local Evertonians, there is a now wide array of interested parties lining up.
However, of all that have emerged, Vatche Manoukian might prove to be the most interesting option.
Who is Vatche Manoukian?
Especially after what was recently reported by the Liverpool ECHO, which actually revealed that the 45-year-old, who made his money as a partner in a global technology investment firm, has been a long-time admirer of the club.
They write: ‘Manoukian is said to have followed Everton for some time and to have attended Blues matches. His offer is centred on a vision that pitches the club as a sleeping giant that can be reawoken with the right expertise and backing.
‘An outline proposal was submitted late last week after discussions between the Manoukian and Moshiri camps and finer details would be thrashed out during a period of exclusivity, should Moshiri seek to go down that route.’
This comes after reports had already emerged suggesting his consortium, which does have Saudi links, has already launched a £400m bid to buy the club.
Manoukian is worth a reported £560m.
Everton have plenty of takeover bidders waiting to strike
Unsurprisingly, due to the unique opportunity that Everton remains despite its recent struggles, Manoukian and his consortium are not alone in their pursuit of the football club.
After all, for many, Farhad Moshiri’s desperation to sell a side shrouded in financial turmoil represents a fine opportunity to get into the Premier League by owning one of England’s oldest and most successful clubs, at a cut price due to those aforementioned downsides.
It will not be easy to turn this sinking ship around, but with an intelligent cash injection as well as a long-term business strategy, it can be done. The brand-new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium is certain to aid in that regard.
So, alongside Manoukian is the owner of AS Roma, Dan Friedkin, who has also shown an interest in the Toffees.
The American billionaire would be keen to add Everton to his multi-club portfolio, but will face particularly stiff competition from the coalition between Andy Bell and George Downing, two successful local businessmen who are both renowned Evertonians.
With the London-based Armenian businessman in question having visited Goodison Park before though, thus affirming his long-term interest in the club, perhaps he represents a blend of both sentimentality and unbridled financial power, which could blend a passion to succeed at a club he is aligned to with a huge backing.