L’Équipe report today that the four investment funds to remain in the race for a stake in the LFP’s commercial arm have until the end of the day to send in their offers. The four firms involved are Hellman and Friedman, Oaktree, CVC, and Silver Lake.
French football’s governing body are hoping for €1.5bn in return for a stake which could go up to 20%, although it would appear that the firms involved would ask for 12% to 15%.
The four candidates would be expected to bring in their expertise to help develop French football on an international stage through broadcasting rights, as well as their financial investment.
One potential issue could involve the respective firms’ interests in individual teams. Silver Lake have a 10% stake in City Football Group, of which Ligue 1 side Troyes forms a part, while Oaktree are owners of Ligue 2’s Caen.
Once the offers are in, the LFP consult with their advisors – the Lazard and Centerview banks, along with law firm Darrois, in order to select their future partner.