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Brentford: an inexpensive route for US investors?

Matthew Benham has appointed Rothschild to oversee the potential sale of Brentford in a deal that is expected to value the Premier League club at about £500 million.

Insiders insist that Benham, the British businessman credited with the transformation of the club since taking control in 2012, would ideally like to remain the majority owner while attracting fresh investment.  But that position could change if Rothschild finds an appropriate buyer, with Sky News reporting that Benham, 55, would then agree to relinquish control and seek to remain involved as a minority shareholder.

Rothschild is expected to launch the process imminently, with interest likely to come from US investors attracted by the chance to gain a relatively inexpensive foothold in the Premier League, compared with clubs such as Chelsea and Manchester United, not to mention a smart new stadium.

A Brentford spokesperson said: “Given the recent rise and growth of our club and the changing shareholder landscape within the Premier League, it’s no surprise that there has been interest in investment opportunities at Brentford FC.

“While Matthew Benham’s commitment to the club remains as strong as it ever was, it is only natural, and perhaps even essential, for us to carefully explore what new investment could potentially mean for the future of Brentford FC.

“We must not stand still and we remain absolutely determined to safeguard the long-term future of Brentford FC and to remain competitive in the world’s most challenging and successful league.”

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