Everton takeover: Ex-CEO suggests deal could be hijacked after what ‘I’m hearing from sources’

777 Partners to be beaten to Everton deal by rival investors?

Former Everton chief Keith Wyness has claimed he believes there are still “other potential buyers” capable of buying the Goodison Park club.

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – suggested the delay in Premier League approval means “severe issues” for 777 Partners.

777 Partners reportedly agreed a deal worth more than £500million to buy Farhad Moshiri’s 94.1% stake in Everton back in September.

The Merseysiders are still awaiting Premier League approval for that deal, a process which also involves the Financial Conduct Authority and Football Association.

It has been reported that Everton have been loaned as much as £180million by their prospective new owners to help with stadium and running costs.

Wyness told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “The process was supposed to take 12 weeks

“We’re now at 19 or 20 weeks, and that does indicate some severe issues.

“Richard Masters mentioned in the House of Commons that they expected the deal to go through by the end of January – that date also came and went.

“There are issues. It’s been reported that they’ve put £160-190million into the club, but I’m hearing from other sources that it may not be the case.

“It’s almost like an IOU. They have pledged to put the money in if needed.

“The Premier League’s issue is that if they approve 777 and they turn out to be bad owners, they’ve got a problem.

“If they don’t approve 777, Everton have a problem.

“I still believe there are other potential buyers out there. I think that is still the best option.

“It will depend on what exclusivity deal 777 have with Everton. It could be difficult for other options to get to the table.”