September 24 – In one of the game’s more unusual takeovers, a Singapore businessman who not so long ago tried to buy Liverpool has agreed to enter into partnership with five former Manchester United players and taken a 50% share in a club playing in the eighth tier of English football.
Peter Lim has joined ex-Manchester United quintet Gary and Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, who agreed to take over Salford City in March, in acquiring the Evo-Stik Division One North club.
The takeover is subject to Football Association approval.
Lim, who is estimated by Forbes to be worth £1.5 billion but withdrew a £320 million bid to buy Liverpool in 2010, is reported to have known the United stalwarts – members of the so-called Class of 92 who all came through the ranks together – for more than 10 years. Salford City, currently top of their league, are based just outside Manchester.
“When we set upon this journey we always knew at some point we wanted external partners involved, people who would share our vision for Salford City FC,” the United five said in a statement..
“Peter’s love of sport, above all football, is well documented. He has an incredible track record in business as well as youth and community engagement, especially at grassroots level. Peter’s experience and knowledge can help take the club to where we believe they can be.”
A spokesperson for Lim said the businessman was impressed with the vision and that he shares a common belief “in youth development through sport”.
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