After what has been a lengthy negotiation, terms have
finally been met for Chinese businessman; Jisheng Gao and his daughter to partner
with Saints owner; Katharina Liebherr.
In an attempt to get financial backing to keep Southampton a
competitive team in the Premier League, Kathrina Liebherr who inherited the
football club (that was bought for £15M in 2009) from her late father announced
back in January that she is open for a new partnership.
And after almost a year of negotiations, Gao and his
daughter; Nelly Gao in a joint statement with Liebherr have announced to fans
on Monday of the new development.
“I am pleased to confirm that talks to bring in a new partner to our
club have been concluded,” she said.
“Following extensive and fruitful work, we are entering into a
partnership with the Gao family and I am excited about what we will achieve
together.
“Today is the start of a new and exciting chapter for our club. Mr
Jisheng Gao and his daughter, Mrs Nelly Gao, with whom I have built a close
relationship, share our values and ambitions.
“As a team, we will strive to build upon the strong foundation that is
in place towards sustainable long-term success.”
“I would like to thank the passionate supporters of the club for their
ongoing loyalty and faith, and I look forward to seeing you soon at St Mary’s.
We March On.”
Gao who is happy with the outcome of the partnership said in
a statement; "I am honoured
and humbled to become a partner of Southampton Football Club alongside
Katharina Liebherr, who, together with her father, has been such a great
steward of the club, its growth and success.”
Though no statement was released on how much was invested on
how many percent would be owned by Mr Jisheng and his family but it is widely
rumoured that a total of £ 210 Million was invested which would be equal to an
80% stake of the club if true.
The saints had a goalless draw in their opening fixture
against Swansea this past weekend.
And hopefully, this new development would put an end to an
ongoing transfer saga involving want-away defender; Virgil van Dijk.
WHAT DO YOU
THINK OF THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT? IS IT A MOVE FORWARD FOR THE SAINTS? PLEASE TELL
US YOUR OPINIONS IN THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW…
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