Daniel Kretinsky interested in full West Ham takeover but faces wait until 2023
West Ham received a £150m boost yesterday when Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky bought a minority stake in the club which could one day lead to a full takeover.
Kretinsky, who co-owns Sparta Prague and is worth over £4bn, completed his purchase of 27 per cent of the club.
The deal reduces the shareholdings of co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold, along with minority investor Tripp Smith.
Sullivan remains the club's majority shareholder with 38.8 per cent while Gold now holds 25.1 per cent and Tripp just 8 per cent.
It is understood Kretinsky is interested in a full takeover of West Ham – but it is unclear whether Sullivan, in particular, would agree to that happening.
The current terms of the club's lease at London Stadium make a full buy-out unlikely before March 2023.
Kretinsky, who was at West Ham's win over Liverpool at the weekend, will now take a seat on the board along with his colleague Pavel Horsky.
It marks the first time Gold and Sullivan have relinquished full control of the Hammers as Kretinsky will be able to block decisions he does not like.
Kretinsky said: "I am delighted this detailed process has now been successfully concluded. I am passionate about football.
Do you think Daniel Kretinsky taking full control of West Ham will serve the club well? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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"The development and growth of the Club in recent years has been clear for everyone to see and I am delighted to be part of what I believe is a very exciting future ahead.
“Having been to the London Stadium recently to watch David Moyes’ team, I know it is an incredible time to become part of the West Ham United family.
"I feel privileged to now have the opportunity to help everyone here build on the proud traditions of this great Club.”
Kretinsky's cash will primarily go towards paying down club debts and has not been earmarked for Hammers boss Moyes to spend in the transfer market.
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: “David Sullivan and David Gold have always been very open about finding the right investors to join them as custodians of West Ham.
"Daniel’s strong business acumen and football experience will be of huge benefit to the Club. We very much look forward to working with him and Pavel.”
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