Everton, the demise of Josh Wander and a cautionary tale

Josh Wander, co-founder of 777 Partners, has pleaded guilty to charges of defrauding lenders and investors in a Manhattan federal court. The 45-year-old admitted to borrowing funds based on exaggerated assets and agreed to forfeit $500 million in proceeds. Wander faces sentencing in March 2027 on wire and securities fraud charges, concluding an era in which his investment firm attempted an ill-fated takeover of Everton.

The proposed Everton takeover collapsed in June 2024 after 777 Partners failed to satisfy conditions set by the Premier League. Despite the eventual failure of the bid, 777 provided approximately £200 million in junior debt to fund the Merseyside club's day-to-day running costs and stadium development, playing a crucial role in preventing potential administration before The Friedkin Group later took control.