Turki Alalshikh, the Saudi boxing promoter known for transforming the country into a major destination for elite boxing bouts, could soon invest in Derby County. Talks have been held between the entrepreneur and club officials, and the government's independent regulator is now exploring whether such a deal would be permitted.
Regulatory Checks Underway
Alalshikh chairs the General Entertainment Authority within the Saudi government. Checks will be carried out to ensure there would be no problems caused by the fact that Saudi's Public Investment Fund owns Premier League club Newcastle United. The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) will scrutinise the potential investment to ensure compliance with its owners and directors test, which went live earlier this month.
Previous Links and Interest
In recent times, Alalshikh has followed a number of social media accounts linked to the Rams, including the club's official account. The 44-year-old has previously been linked with Millwall and Bristol City. He has also owned clubs in Egypt and Spain. Derby, the EFL, and the IFR all declined to comment on the matter.
Current Ownership and Future Plans
Discussions have already taken place between Alalshikh and Derby owner David Clowes. Clowes brought Derby out of administration in 2022, spending £55 million in the process. He is known to be seeking external investment and, according to the Daily Telegraph, is open to selling up to 80 per cent of the club. Should the IFR give the green light, those talks can progress further.
Aiming for Premier League
Derby finished eighth in the Championship this season, ending four points short of the play-offs. Any investment would be aimed at pushing the club into the Premier League. The Rams, managed by John Eustace, are looking to build on their recent progress and secure a top-flight return.
