Stéphane Tessier in talks to buy Clermont Foot as Schaefer weighs sale | OneFootball

Stéphane Tessier, former OM managing director, is in talks over a takeover of Clermont Foot. The club are not yet safe in Ligue 2 and visit Montpellier on Saturday at 20:00 in the penultimate round.

Owner Ahmet Schaefer has long signalled a change in shareholding, repeating the message at a partners’ garden party last week. Seven years after buying the Auvergne club from Claude Michy for 4M€, he is aiming to complete a total or partial sale by late summer.

“We have entered negotiations, but I cannot go further into details because of confidentiality. Discussions with the current owner are going very well, and we hope to have more clarity in around 10 days, but we must proceed step by step as anything written now could destabilise a club fighting to stay up,” said Tessier, speaking to La Montagne. His presence alongside his brother at last Friday’s 1-1 draw with Bastia was noted, and the timing of his comments surprised some inside the club.

Tessier, 51, has sent a letter of intent to Schaefer that frames discussions before any formal bid. He has significant funds after selling the family firm Loire Ascenseurs and is seeking to partner with local entrepreneurs, while it is suggested he could be joined by Karim Fradin.

Schaefer urged patience. “Our energy is totally focused on staying up,” he said. He stressed that his reflection predates the TV rights crisis, investors with national and international football experience are studying financial documents, and nothing has been signed.

With two rounds left, Clermont are 14th on 31 points, two ahead of play-off side Laval. Vetted bidders, selected by a consultancy, have had access to the data room. Schaefer cited seven years of progress, including promotion to Ligue 1 in 2021 and stadium and training upgrades, and said it may be time to turn the page.

Source: L'Équipe