Rangers Fans Anticipate Major US Investment as San Francisco 49ers Target Ibrox Takeover
Rangers supporters are buzzing with excitement as fresh investment from the United States, led by the San Francisco 49ers, is expected to flow into Ibrox.
Reports emerged this week that Rangers are in advanced negotiations with the investment group backing the NFL giants, who are expanding their footprint in British football.
This group, which secured a majority stake in Leeds United last year, has been focused on guiding the English club back to the Premier League. Similarly, news of potential US investment at Ibrox has sparked optimism that substantial financial backing from across the Atlantic could help restore Rangers to former glories.
49ers Aim for Majority Control of Rangers
BBC Sport and journalist Tom English have provided key updates regarding the potential Rangers takeover.
The BBC suggests that the takeover—spearheaded by the San Francisco 49ers’ investment arm—could be finalized between April and June. This would allow the consortium to establish itself at Ibrox ahead of the new season and a potential Champions League qualifying campaign.
Crucially, reports indicate that the 49ers group is looking to acquire a controlling stake of over 50% in Rangers. While Leeds United chairman and 49ers Investments chief Paraag Marathe is central to the deal, an unnamed mystery investor is also believed to play a significant role.
Contrary to speculation, Marathe is not expected to take on the role of Ibrox chairman following the takeover.
Dave King and the Ibrox Board Support the Takeover
Dave King, Rangers’ largest individual shareholder, is reportedly in favor of the 49ers-led takeover bid.
Rangers’ shareholding structure is currently divided among seven key stakeholders, all of whom have a vested interest in the US investment. King holds a 12.96% stake, followed by Douglas Park (11.54%), George Alexander Taylor (10.22%), Stuart Gibson (9.53%), John Bennett (7.11%), Julian Wolhardt (6.69%), and Perron Investments (6%).
While King has had disagreements with the Rangers board in recent years, the BBC reports that there is now a consensus among board members that fresh investment is necessary.
Amid growing concerns of investor fatigue, English suggests that the current leadership is reaching a crossroads as they attempt to reverse the club’s recent struggles.
The Rangers board reportedly views Marathe and the 49ers group as credible investors, with the takeover potentially reaching completion within the next four months.
