Liverpool have four realistic buyers ready should FSG sanction full sale of Klopp's side

Fenway Sports Group have put Liverpool up for sale, and while there is currently no leading candidate, several parties could realistically be involved when the bidding commences. Last year, FSG joined forces with American banks Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to seek investment, with the view of a full-blown sale after 12 years at Anfield.

From fellow Americans to sovereign wealth funds to foreign billionaires, the race to succeed FSG at Liverpool is wide open. Express Sport explores the four options that could be considered the Reds’ most likely next owners.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia

Reports last weekend claimed private sector firms from Qatar and Saudi Arabia were in talks with Liverpool over a £3billion sale. The speculation followed Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal confirming the state would back any suitor looking to make a bid for the Reds.

But it’s been suggested elsewhere that FSG would want £500m more to sanction a deal. And CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs, who spent several years working in the Middle East, believes Qatari and Saudi interest hasn’t yet left the ‘thought process’ stage.

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Harris/Blitzer Sports and Entertainment

Harris/Blitzer Sports and Entertainment (HBSE) were in the running to purchase Chelsea and, despite their unsuccessful bid, are thought to be ‘mulling their options’ over a potential pursuit of Liverpool. David Blitzer and Josh Harris’ attempt to buy Chelsea indicates they are willing to divest their 36 per cent stake in Crystal Palace, and they could have a secret weapon to win the race for the six-time European champions.

Sir Martin Broughton, Liverpool chairman in the early embers of FSG’s tenure, played a significant role in the passing of power from Tom Hicks and George Gillett to the American owners. Wall Street financer Michael Klein also has strong ties to FSG and was involved in the HBSE/Broughton Chelsea takeover bid.

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Mukesh Ambani

Mukesh Ambani is an Indian billionaire who attempted to buy Liverpool in 2009 and could return to the frame 14 years later. The 65-year-old is the world’s eighth richest man, boasting a fortune worth around £90bn.

Whether his interest in Liverpool has remained for longer than a decade remains to be seen, but he could be among the most realistic solo buyers if the opportunity arises.

Stephen Pagliuca

Stephen Pagliuca was one of the favourite candidates to buy Chelsea, staying in the process until the end thanks to his wealth and impressive track record as the owner of the Boston Celtics and Atalanta. The 67-year-old shares a key similarity with FSG, having Massachusetts roots.

Despite his unsuccessful move to buy Chelsea, Pagliuca is still interested in investing in the Premier League and could be one of the frontrunners.

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source: express.co.uk