October 30 – English second-tier club Bolton Wanderers are playing down rumours of a potential takeover by a Thai consortium which would represent the latest foreign incursion into English football.
With the historic club around £150 million in debt, it has been reported that BEC-Tero and Siam Sport Syndicate are preparing to make a joint bid to take over for a sum believed to be in the region of £40 million.
“We have spoken to several parties who have expressed interest in investing in the club but these quotes from Thailand come as a complete surprise to me,” said Bolton chairman Phil Gartside.
BEC-Tero managing director Bryan Marcar was quoted as saying: “I must admit I have a close relationship with the club’s president. The club has plenty of property, and most importantly, they have their own stadium, hotel and football academy.
“In terms of their financial status, they made profits between 2004 and 2006, but suffered losses since then, with their debt now standing at £150 million. They’re quite ready in almost every aspect. That will help us benefit in many ways, especially when it comes to Thai players playing in England.”
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