Everton owner Farhad Moshiri has entered into a period of exclusivity with US billionaire Dan Friedkin over the sale of the club.
Having seen the long-doomed pursuit of a Toffees takeover by Miami-based 777 Partners finally end last month after the struggling firm failed to come up with the funds to complete, AS Roma owner Friedkin was one of a number of interested parties to show their hand.
While it is a step closer to a deal for the club, and provides a credible candidate with football experience and considerable resources, people familiar with the matter stressed that it was not a deal that was done and dusted.
Friedkin and his team have now started the process of due diligence and will be analysing all aspects of the club’s business to get a full understanding of the financial situation and the risks that they will be undertaking in acquiring the Toffees. A potential purchase price was not disclosed.
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