Everton’s failed 777 takeover provides warning as club considers ownership future

Everton's failed takeover by 777 Partners serves as a cautionary tale following co-founder Josh Wander's guilty plea to fraud charges in US federal court. Wander pleaded guilty on October 15 to wire and securities fraud involving more than $500 million. The revelation comes as current Everton owners, The Friedkin Group, explore new investment options, including the potential sale of a controlling interest in the Premier League club.

Farhad Moshiri agreed to sell his 94.1 percent stake to 777 Partners in September 2023 before the purchase agreement collapsed in June 2024. Although 777 provided roughly £200 million in vital operating loans during the process, they failed to satisfy Premier League conditions. The Friedkin Group completed their takeover in December 2024 and have since resolved the inherited financial instability and finished the new stadium.