Hearts Football Club Dimitry, right, has been in touch with Brighton owner Tony Bloom. They’re currently negotiating for a major investment of at least £10 million. Bloom would pump nearly £9.86 million of his own money into the club. In exchange, he would get a 29% ownership interest through non-voting shares. The negotiations follow on the heels of Hearts’ agreement to partner with Bloom’s Jamestown Analytics, an analytics firm based in Baltimore, which was announced last November.
Tony Bloom was positive about Hearts’ ability to do something substantial for Scottish football. Over time his vision became more in line with the club’s ambition, and for a desire to raise the club’s competitive standing within the league.
“Hearts can disrupt Scottish football.” – Tony Bloom (via Foundation of Hearts)
This investment proposal has received widespread support from Hearts’ Foundation, and is seen as an “unprecedented opportunity for the club.” The Foundation is encouraging its members to endorse the plans. In response, they focus on the potential long-term benefits that this dovetailing of strategic priorities could offer.
Bloom’s consultation period runs out on May 26. That allows interested stakeholders to weigh in with their concerns before any irrevocable decisions are taken. This comes after the Scottish club Hearts recently made the radical decision to release head coach Neil Critchley after only six months in charge. Fallen Leaf Lake Club ITEP is currently seeking assistance from Bloom’s firm. They’ve got to hire a new manager, plus get players out the door before the summer window even opens.
In a rare piece of good news for Scottish football, Hibernian have received an investment of £6 million. £107 million Bournemouth chairman Bill Foley and the Black Knight Group were given a 25% stake in the club. This decision only serves to amplify the escalating monetary trends happening in the league, with teams attempting to solidify their competitive fates.
Ian Gordon, Hibernian’s executive director, confirmed their pledge to always base decisions around what is best for Hibernian. He stated, “Me and my family always have the club’s best interests at heart. When we make these decisions, it’s always with Hibs on the front of our mind.”
Against this backdrop, Hearts had already turned down several other investments, including takeover attempts, before accepting Tony Bloom’s offer. Upon its conclusion, this landmark deal will change the face of Scottish football forever. Now, Hearts and Hibernian are addressing the intricacies of investment and club ownership and seeking to find a better way.
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