£1bn Everton valuation could put off potential buyers, finance expert warns

A reported £1billion valuation of Everton could deter some prospective buyers as The Friedkin Group considers its options at the club, according to football finance expert Stefan Borson.

TFG confirmed earlier this month that it is exploring new investment, including the potential sale of a controlling interest. Reports have since suggested the owners value Everton at around £1bn, although the club has not publicly confirmed an asking price.

Everton valuation could prove key to sale

Borson believes that figure could become an issue when potential buyers begin assessing the opportunity. The former Manchester City financial adviser told Football Insider that parties who previously showed an interest in Everton are likely to be approached again.

That could include bidders who missed out when TFG completed its takeover in December 2024. Having already carried out due diligence would give those parties a better understanding of the club and potentially speed up the early stages, although Borson believes they may not place the same value on Everton as the Friedkins.

The club they would be assessing has changed significantly. Everton are now established at the Hill Dickinson, while TFG’s work on the club’s finances has helped create a more stable proposition than the one potential buyers previously considered.

Borson has described the new stadium as a major selling point, particularly because of its commercial potential and opportunities for wider development around the site. He has also argued that a £1bn valuation is achievable, but believes the market will ultimately determine whether buyers agree.

That process could take some time. Borson has previously suggested that completing a takeover could require as long as six months even after a buyer has been identified, meaning renewed interest would not necessarily produce a quick change of ownership.

TFG’s official position remains that it will only consider investment from parties it believes can support Everton’s continued development. For now, the valuation may prove one of the biggest tests of how much interest develops into something more substantial.

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