EPL Chairman Eyes Hearts Stake, But Needs Fan Approval to Proceed
English Premier League figurehead Tony Bloom is poised to expand his football interests into Scotland, with a proposed £10 million investment in Heart of Midlothian. However, the Brighton & Hove Albion chairman must first gain the backing of the club’s fanbase through a formal vote.
Bloom, who has also invested in Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise, is set to acquire a 29% non-voting stake in the Tynecastle club, subject to approval from the Foundation of Hearts (FoH), the supporters’ group that holds a majority share on behalf of fans. Talks that began over a year ago are now reaching their conclusion, with FoH members beginning a consultation and voting process today, May 6.
The proposed deal—first revealed by the Edinburgh News last September—would see Bloom invest £9.86 million in exchange for non-voting shares, ensuring that FoH’s 75.1% controlling interest remains untouched. While Bloom would not take part in daily operations or have voting rights, he would be granted a seat on the board—likely filled by an appointed representative, increasing the number of directors to eight.
This move follows Hearts’ previous partnership with Jamestown Analytics, a sports recruitment firm that employs Bloom’s proprietary data systems. The partnership has already influenced recruitment strategy and coaching appointments.
The investment would be used across multiple areas, with some funds going towards strengthening the playing squad, while the rest would support infrastructure development, including long-considered plans for a new training facility.
Importantly, Bloom’s involvement is strictly personal. There will be no operational links between Hearts, Brighton, or Union Saint-Gilloise, avoiding any concerns over multi-club ownership models or feeder-club dynamics.
The Foundation of Hearts board has urged its 8,000+ members to vote in favour of the proposal, describing it as a “transformational opportunity” to unlock the club’s full potential. A simple majority is required to approve the deal, with the consultation period running until May 26.
Should the vote pass, Hearts will convene an Extraordinary General Meeting to finalize the agreement, which will still be subject to Scottish FA and regulatory approvals.
