Tottenham’s owners have rejected multiple takeover approaches in recent weeks as speculation mounts over ENIC’s willingness to sell.
The debate reignited after Daniel Levy stepped down on 4 September following 24 years as executive chairman, with Peter Charrington taking over as non-executive chairman.
– ADEVERTISEMENT –
ENIC, which owns 86.91% of Spurs, has repeatedly insisted the club is not for sale despite offers valuing Tottenham at around £4.5billion.
[Football Insider reports] that former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson believes the club’s decision to end its relationship with bankers Rothschild signals a firm stance.
“It increasingly looks like they’re not bluffing,” Borson said. “Getting rid of Rothschild’s as your advisor is a statement that you’re not really engaging and you don’t really want to sell.”
He added that the Lewis family, who control 70.12% of ENIC, “are very visible now at games home and away,” suggesting they intend to keep ownership.
– ADEVERTISEMENT –
Borson also noted a minority investor could still buy into Levy’s stake, similar to the Jim Ratcliffe–Manchester United model.
“If the Lewis’s don’t want to sell, then it does look difficult for Daniel Levy and his family to remain as a relatively small minority,” he said.
Vinai Venkatesham, appointed CEO earlier this year, now leads Tottenham’s day-to-day operations amid the ongoing ownership uncertainty.