Everton continue talks ‘to explore new investment’ after MSP Sports Capital collapse

MSP was believed to be looking for a 25% stake with a preferential share structure, not equity in the club, so would be paid back in interest.

They had jumped ahead of fellow American investment group 777 Partners, who had been given access to the “data room” [financial accounts].

However, talks with 777 did not progress as the company was not prepared to pay a “significant” price owing to the debt on the balance sheet – which stood at £141.7m in the latest club accounts.

When asked by BBC Sport on Thursday whether they had reopened talks about investment in Everton 777 Partners declined to comment.

In February, Moshiri told the fans’ advisory board, external the club was “not for sale” but he had been talking to “top investors of real quality”.

British-Iranian businessman Moshiri has invested more than £750m since 2016, but some supporters are deeply unhappy about his ownership of the club.

Toffees fans held protests before some home games last season and called for Moshiri and the board to leave the club.

Chief executive Denise Barrett-Baxendale, chief finance and strategy officer Grant Ingles and non-executive director Graeme Sharp have all since left their boardroom roles, but chairman Bill Kenwright remains in his post.

Everton are currently bottom of the Premier League after losing their opening two games without scoring, and face winless Wolves at Goodison Park this weekend.

Striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin is out of the game after suffering a facial injury and will see a specialist about the issue on Friday, while winger Alex Iwobi has been ruled out for a few weeks with a hamstring problem.

On Thursday night Everton fans campaign group NSNOW said it was a “desperately concerning time for all Evertonians”.

“We head into the critical last week of the transfer window now with massive uncertainty about our club’s ownership, leadership and financial position,” the group said.

“It is essential that Farhad Moshiri communicates openly to fans about his position and future plans, puts in place a new chairman, board and chief executive who can provide leadership for the club, and provides reassurance the club can fund the completion of the new stadium.”