Saudi Arabia Expresses Interest in Rangers Amid Imminent US-Led Takeover
Rangers have reportedly drawn takeover interest from Saudi investors in recent months, even as the club edges closer to a major ownership shift led by a US-based consortium.
The Ibrox side is nearing a deal with a group headed by American healthcare magnate Andrew Cavenagh and Paraag Marathe, a key figure with the San Francisco 49ers. The pair have identified a pathway to secure a controlling 51% stake in the club, although the final agreement may not be completed until mid-June — leaving open the possibility of late developments.
With Rangers’ season effectively over in terms of silverware across their final three matches, attention has now shifted firmly to the off-field developments and the looming change in leadership.
Dave King Confirms Saudi Interest
Former Rangers chairman Dave King has now revealed that prior to the US consortium’s involvement, the club had also attracted interest from wealthy Saudi investors. King had been actively seeking external funding to help take the club forward following what he described as a disappointing trajectory after their Premiership triumph under Steven Gerrard in the 2020-21 season.
Speaking on talkSPORT (as reported by The Herald on May 7), King said he had been engaging with potential Saudi backers before being introduced to the current American group.
“After [title number] 55, I felt the club had fallen too far behind again and that relying on local investment wouldn’t close the gap,” King explained. “I began looking for someone with the resources and vision to move the club forward — not just with a football plan, but a solid financial one too.
“I had talks with Saudi investors, then around October, Paul Murray contacted me and said, ‘Dave, I know you’re searching for investors — I think I’ve found the right guys.’”
Takeover Nearing Completion
The US consortium is now in the process of acquiring enough shares to assume majority control at Ibrox, with King among those who have agreed to sell their stake. While there had been hope the transaction would be completed by late May, sources now suggest the deal might extend into June.
Despite the delay, the impending takeover has sparked optimism among fans, with many hopeful that new ownership will bring greater financial stability and a refreshed strategic vision for the club’s future.
