Everton takeover collapses again as Toffees face more uncertainty ahead of new season

Everton have announced that The Friedkin Group (TFG) will not be going ahead with a potential takeover.

Serie A's AS Roma owner, Dan Friedkin, was considered a contender for the Toffees' ownership after a controversial deal with 777 Partners fell through. Following four weeks of negotiation after TFG entered into an exclusivity period, it has been confirmed that no agreement has been reached.

In a statement, Everton shared: "Following a period of exclusivity, discussions between Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group over a potential sale of a majority stake in Everton have ended and The Friedkin Group will not be progressing with a purchase of the Club."

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It continued: "Both Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group entered discussions in good faith to explore whether a sale could be agreed. Those discussions have concluded. The parties agree it is in both their interests for Everton to explore alternative options.

"Despite this outcome, The Friedkin Group will remain a lender to the Club, proud of its role in making the new stadium possible, a development that promises a promising future for both Everton and the City of Liverpool."

The statement concluded with: "Blue Heaven Holdings maintains a positive relationship with The Friedkin Group and would like to thank them for the time and effort they have put into this process."

Last season, Everton received a $258m (£200m) loan from 777 Partners, an American investment firm, to stave off serious financial issues.

However, they were unable to secure a deal for Everton, who are burdened with significant debts including a $580m (£450m) unsecured loan provided by club owner Farhad Moshiri.

Following the breakdown of a potential deal with TFG, Everton will now have to revisit their plans. John Textor, an American businessman who holds a 45 per cent stake in Crystal Palace, has previously shown interest in making a bid but would need to sell his stake in the London club before doing so.

Liverpool.com says: Everton will have hoped their financial issues were behind them and the club could move forward with new owners. But the latest news will come as a real blow to supporters ahead of the new season. It remains to be seen who will come forward with a takeover bid.