Sheffield United prospective new owner looking for further financial backing to pass EFL requirements | OneFootball

The ongoing saga of the Sheffield United takeover has taken another turn as American businessman Steve Rosen, the prospective buyer of the club, seeks additional financial backing to satisfy the requirements of the English Football League, per Alan Nixon.

Rosen, who is said to have agreed to purchase the Blades in a deal reportedly worth £105 million, is being asked by the EFL to provide guarantees for funding over the next two seasons.

While the deal seemed imminent a few weeks ago, reports suggested it would be finalised within 48 hours, with a formal announcement expected, recent developments have added yet more layers of complexity. Now, Rosen is working to bring in a new ally capable of pledging the necessary capital to not only secure EFL approval but also position the club for a potential January transfer window spending spree.

Adding a surprising twist to the takeover narrative, Hollywood director Joe Russo was recently spotted at Bramall Lane during Sheffield United’s Steel City derby victory. Russo, along with his brother Anthony, forms one half of the Russo brothers, famed for directing blockbuster Marvel films like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

If Russo becomes involved, his presence could attract international attention and bring significant financial resources to the club. Russo’s potential backing would not only bolster the takeover effort but could also signal a new era for Sheffield United, with global exposure, similar to the impact Ryan Reynolds has made to Wrexham.

The Blades have endured financial challenges in recent years, and the promise of a fresh injection of funds, especially with Hollywood-level attention, could transform the club’s fortunes.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – AUGUST 05: A detailed view inside the ground during the pre-season friendly match between Sheffield United and VfB Stuttgart at Bramall Lane on August 05, 2023 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Graham Chadwick/Getty Images)

Another takeover twist for Sheffield United

Yet, once more, there seems to be absolutely nothing straightforward as far as Sheffield United takeovers go. Just when there are reports of a deal being finalised, another wrinkle appears. At this point, many supporters of the Blades have become numb to emotions regarding the takeover story; they have lost all belief that a takeover will come to fruition.

With the January transfer window now only a few weeks away, ideally everyone at United will be hoping to get some clarification on this takeover saga because the deals in the winter window could be vital in the race for automatic promotion, and the top six in general.

The worry in the early parts of the season from the fan base was that the Blades don’t have enough depth in key areas. However, as the season as progressed, we’ve seen contribution across the board, and experienced campaigners such as Jack Robinson (and Tom Davies) getting back to full fitness will only help the club. The one glaring worry is: what happens if Gustavo Hamer or Jesurun Rak-Sakyi suffer a mid to long-term injury? Hence why fans want to see a couple of additions in January.