Jeff Bezos linked with potential Liverpool investment as billionaire explores minority stake deal

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has held discussions about joining an investment group led by Amit Bhatia that is exploring the possibility of purchasing a minority stake in Liverpool FC, according to reports.

Bezos, one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, could become part of the consortium fronted by British-Indian businessman Amit Bhatia, who is the son-in-law of billionaire industrialist Lakshmi Mittal.

According to Sky News, Bezos has shown interest in the potential investment opportunity, although the report added that the billionaire has not yet made a final decision on whether he will move forward with the proposal.

The 62-year-old Amazon founder is estimated by Forbes to have a net worth of around £192 billion, making him one of the richest people on the planet.

The interest comes after Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG) confirmed that Bhatia’s consortium had approached the club to discuss a possible minority investment in the 20-time English champions.

Bezos has previously explored opportunities to invest in major American sports franchises, including the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Commanders, but ultimately decided not to pursue either deal.

Meanwhile, Bhatia’s interest in Liverpool emerged on the same day he announced his departure from the board of Queens Park Rangers (QPR) after an 18-year association with the Championship club.

The businessman transferred his stake in QPR to majority owner Ruben Gnanalingam, bringing an end to his long involvement with the club.

In 2023, FSG sold a minority stake in Liverpool to investment firm Dynasty Equity, and any potential agreement with Bhatia’s consortium is expected to follow a similar structure rather than involve a full takeover.

Reports from the Financial Times suggest that a deal involving Bhatia’s group could value Liverpool at more than $6 billion (£4.59 billion).

FSG, which also owns the Boston Red Sox, completed its purchase of Liverpool in 2010 for around £300 million and has since overseen a period of major success, including Premier League and Champions League triumphs.