As Everton’s clash with West Ham United rumbled away in the background, the day was instead dominated by tributes, with moments of remembrance for the late Bill Kenwright and Sir Bobby Charlton pre-match.
However, there remain a number of figures in the stand arguably of more importance than those out on the pitch, with rumours of a Toffees takeover still festering.
Farhad Moshiri’s desire to depart Merseyside has been well-documented, as has 777 Partners’ eagerness to acquire the club. So, fans who have been championing such a deal will have been delighted when the Liverpool ECHO suggested that: ‘Josh Wander and Don Dransfield part of the Everton delegation in the directors’ box at the London Stadium. Kevin Thelwell and Colin Chong is also present.’
This comes just over a month after the Miami-based firm had agreed a deal to purchase all 94.1% of Moshiri’s stake in Everton, with the Iranian having even penned an open letter to the shareholders in order to secure the deal.
Such a huge presence at today’s game offers yet another statement of intent from Wander and co, who seek to make the Goodison Park outfit the jewel in their multi-club system.
How much are 777 Partners worth?
Even if there had been rumours of other parties interested earlier in the week, there are likely few who would show interest, especially those who boast as huge a treasure chest as they do.
After all, having made their money across numerous businesses, their entrance within the club would surely be welcomed, especially if they promised to wipe away some of their outstanding debts that seemingly continue to pile up.
It would likely mark a small outlay for 777 Partners too, who are reportedly worth around $12bn (£9.63bn).
To put such a figure into perspective, were they to take over Everton, they would instantly become the fifth-richest club in the Premier League, with owners more wealthy than Liverpool and Manchester United.
Their presence today will be a welcome sight to those wishing to see the back of Moshiri, as they still await the results of both their ownership test and their potential FFP sanction.
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