Preston North End FC, one of the founding members of the Football League, has held talks with Amr Zedan, a US-born Saudi businessman with interests in sectors including energy and horse racing, about a potential investment, Sky News has learned.
Zedan, who has a track record of involvement in the sports industry, is understood to be considering acquiring a stake in the historic club, which currently plays in the EFL Championship, the second tier of English football.
The discussions are at an early stage, and it remains unclear whether a deal will ultimately materialise. However, the potential investment represents an opportunity for Preston North End to secure additional financial backing as they aim to challenge for promotion to the Premier League.
Preston North End, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest professional football clubs in the world. The club, which has won the FA Cup twice and the Football League title on several occasions, has a loyal fanbase and a rich heritage within the English game.
Zedan, who is the chairman of Zedan Group, a diversified conglomerate with interests in energy, real estate, and sports, has previously invested in the equestrian industry, owning racehorses and sponsoring major events. His interest in Preston North End suggests a desire to expand his sports-related portfolio.
The potential investment comes at a time when the Championship, often referred to as one of the most competitive leagues in world football, has attracted significant attention from international investors. Several clubs in the division have been the subject of takeover talks or have welcomed new ownership in recent years.
For Preston North End, the prospect of securing investment from Zedan could provide the financial resources necessary to strengthen their squad and infrastructure, potentially enhancing their chances of achieving promotion to the Premier League, which would bring significant financial rewards and increased visibility.
However, any potential deal would need to be carefully scrutinised to ensure it aligns with the club’s long-term vision and values, as well as the broader interests of the Preston North End supporters.
As the discussions between Zedan and Preston North End continue, football fans and industry observers will closely monitor the situation, eager to see whether this historic club can secure the investment needed to take it to new heights.
