What those close to The Friedkin Group are saying following Friday’s Everton takeover update

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There was a lot to take in for Everton fans on Friday when the big takeover update emerged around lunchtime.

Over one whole year of waiting to see new ownership at Everton finally looks to be coming to an end.

It was suggested The Friedkin Group received Premier League approval, which was the final hurdle in their bid to take over at Goodison Park.

Attention will now have to turn back to the football with Sean Dyche’s side taking on Arsenal in the league on Saturday afternoon.

But those away fans at the Emirates are certainly going to arrive at the Emirates in good spirits after the news on The Friedkin Group’s takeover development.

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The Friedkin Group sources deny Everton takeover approval

There were some suggestions on Friday afternoon that the reports of Everton’s takeover approval were wide of the mark.

According to the Liverpool Echo, sources close to The Friedkin Group are denying the news to break on Friday.

It is claimed the reports have jumped the gun with the Friedkins still awaiting approval from the Premier League independent oversight panel.

However, it is also added that there are no real concerns surrounding this with the takeover still expected to go through before the end of the year.

Alan Myers said earlier this week that the Everton takeover is likely to be finalised next week with the deal nearing completion.

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Everton face mammoth task against Arsenal after takeover news

Although there are contrasting reports on whether the takeover has been approved or not, there is a strong belief across the board there are no issues.

Even Mikel Arteta has reacted to Everton’s takeover developments ahead of the Toffees’ clash against Arsenal on Saturday.

Everton cannot afford to be distracted by the off-field news with a daunting run of fixtures leading Dyche’s side into the New Year.

Dyche is expected to be sacked by the Friedkins once they get their feet under the table on Merseyside.

However, a result against the Gunners would cap off a hugely encouraging week, with Arteta claiming Everton hold an advantage over Arsenal, having had extra time to rest.