Tottenham could be on the verge of a major leadership change, as reports circulate about a hostile takeover that might see long-serving chairman Daniel Levy forced out of his role.
This speculation follows increasing interest from various investors, most notably Amanda Staveley, a prominent British businesswoman with strong ties to Middle Eastern investors.
She was recently spotted with Daniel Levy at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, fuelling rumours that she might be close to an investment in the North London club.
There has already been talks about the extent of control she will have on the operations at the club if the investment is to finalise, with reports suggesting that she wants to replace Ange Postecoglou with Eddie Howe.
And to make matters concerning for Levy, it has been suggested that what could start as a minor investment could turn into a hostile takeover, pushing Levy out of the club.
Stan Collymore on a potential hostile takeover at Tottenham
According to former English striker Stan Collymore, the takeover could begin with a minority investment, potentially leading to full ownership of the club.
Staveley, who played a key role in facilitating the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle United in 2021, is believed to be exploring a similar strategy at Tottenham.
The involvement of Middle Eastern investors, possibly including Qatari backers, is also being discussed as part of this approach.
Collymore suggests that the takeover might start with an initial purchase of a 12.5% stake in the club, which could then gradually increase over time.
The pundit believes that if a substantial offer, possibly in the region of £6 billion, is made to current owners Joe Lewis and Daniel Levy, it may be difficult for them to refuse.
Such a deal could ultimately result in Levy stepping away from the club he has helped shape for over two decades. Collymore told CaughtOffside:
“I get why Spurs would be seen as a potential hostile takeover with the Middle East businessman first buying a small amount of shares, then gradually buying the whole club.
“The suggestion from recent news reports were that it was 12.5 per cent for £700 million, and then the Qataris would chew off the percentages until they bought the lot.
“Joe Lewis and Daniel Levy could be offered something ridiculous like £6bn to get out, and then Amanda Staveley, by putting in relatively little of her own money, will walk away with an astounding amount.”
Daniel Levy’s time at Tottenham
Levy’s association with Tottenham dates back to 2000 when ENIC, the investment group he heads, first acquired a stake in the club. Over the years, ENIC increased its holdings, and Levy took over as chairman in 2001.
Despite facing a lot of criticism from fans for lack of investment in the team, Spurs have experienced significant growth under him, both on and off the pitch. One of the major off-the-pitch achievements in his tenure has been the development of the cutting-edge Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Although a lucrative offer might encourage Levy to consider exiting, his deep-rooted connection to the club suggests he could still seek to maintain control.
Whether this takeover materialises remains to be seen, but it has the potential to mark a significant turning point in Tottenham’s history.
