Takeover and over again
Last updated : 05 February 2008 By Chris C
Saints have been chasing the supposed Holy Grail of investment ever since Wilde and his 'white knights' ousted Lowe. Despite constant rumours with statements to the stock exchange and of course the failed SISU takeover, nothing has actually materialised and Saints' financial situation has continued to deteriorate.
Crouch promised on his return to bring in a high profile PLC Chairman with Saints fan Anthony Salz initially linked. He may well have been working behind the scenes, but this has never been officially confirmed.
And so onto today's dry stock exchange announcement:
"The Board of Southampton confirms that it is in discussions with certain third parties in relation to a possible offer for the acquisition of all, or part, of the issued share capital of the Company.
There is no certainty that an offer will be made and discussions are at an early stage. Further announcements will be made in due course as and when necessary."
There is a real sense of deja vu and an understandable level of cynicism among the fanbase who have had their hopes raised and then dashed all summer with talk of billionaire Paul Allen and numerous other leaked names that came to nothing.
It's hard to get too excited at this stage as we simply don't know the details or even if it will materialise.
Certainly the timing is interesting. Saints are yet to unveil a new manager and have removed two of the highest earners off the wage bill. In theory this would allow new investors to have an input in the new manager and room to add to the squad through loans. Now I am getting carried away...
It's not been pleasant this season on the pitch, but it's certainly not been dull off it.
