The ownership of Chelsea finds itself in a state of uncertainty, with growing speculation that Mark Walter and Todd Boehly may be inclined to sell their stakes in the club to Clearlake Capital, according to sources cited by ESPN.
Clearlake Capital currently holds a 61.5% stake in Chelsea, led by Behdad Eghbali and Jose E. Feliciano, while American investors Walter and Boehly each possess 12.83%, sharing this ownership with Swiss philanthropist Hansjorg Wyss.
ESPN’s sources indicate that the relationship between Clearlake and the other investors, particularly Boehly, has soured in recent years, with both parties eyeing buyouts in 2024.
Although a temporary truce was established, there are now signs that Walter and Boehly could consider selling their shares if a favorable offer comes along.
The consortium acquired Chelsea for £2.5 billion ($3.4 billion) in 2022 and committed an additional £1.75 billion ($2.4 billion) for investments in the club after sanctions were imposed on former owner Roman Abramovich due to alleged connections with Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, following the invasion of Ukraine.
Sources have indicated to ESPN that Walter and Boehly currently value the club at approximately double the amount paid just four years ago.
None of the parties—including Walter, Boehly, Clearlake, and Chelsea—have commented on potential discussions or the estimated valuation.
Previously, sources told ESPN that Clearlake remains open to increasing its stake if the opportunity arises.
The Financial Times has reported that negotiations have taken place.
Recently, Walter finalized the swift sale of the Los Angeles Lakers to venture capitalist Joshua Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger, reaching a valuation of $12.5 billion.
Walter, who acquired the Lakers just 14 months prior, is currently under federal investigation regarding some of the insurance companies he owns.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the investigation focuses on whether $21 billion in loans made to companies associated with Walter or his conglomerate, TWG Global, were funneled to his other ventures via an intermediary.
As of mid-August, no charges have been filed, and both Walter and TWG Global have denied any wrongdoing, asserting their full cooperation with authorities.
“Mark Walter and TWG have always acted in good faith, and those who have done business with Mark know him to be honest and straightforward,” TWG Global stated. “We are cooperating with authorities and believe these matters will be resolved favorably.”
There has been no confirmation that the sale of the Lakers is related to the ongoing investigation.
Boehly initially assumed the role of interim sporting director and was the public representative of Chelsea’s new ownership. However, Clearlake has since solidified its influence within the club, with Eghbali now establishing himself as the prominent figure.