Liverpool Exclusive: Kieran Maguire reacts to multi-billion FSG update in NBA
Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group purchasing the Boston Celtics would not affect the Anfield outfit, Kieran Maguire has said.
Boston Globe reporter Michael Silverman revealed (19 January) that the Reds owners are expected to be one of up to five parties that table a bid for the NBA franchise.
The fee for the basketball outfit will exceed £4.8billion which has left supporters concerned that it will directly impact the Merseyside club’s contract negotiations with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
However, speaking exclusively to Liverpool News, Maguire said that won’t be the case: “It won’t make any difference.
“FSG see clubs as independent franchises (horrible word to use for a genuine club such as Liverpool but John Henry sees things differently).
“Celtics are cash generative so whilst £4.8bn seems a lot will get a return on investment each year.
“I suspect that the contract impasse for Mo, Trent, and Virgil van Dijk is down to contract length. FSG fears a Kyle Walker-style loss of pace & form which then leaves them with a £15-20m a year wage cost per player plus the cost of recruitment of a replacement, so only want to offer one-year deals.
“Players want longer security.”
FSG development will not affect Liverpool
The Reds’ owners already own the MLB’s Boston Red Sox and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, purchased in 2002 and 2021 respectively.
The American ownership group has overhauled the Anfield outfit since their arrival turning them into Champions League and Premier League winners under the management of Jurgen Klopp.
However, they have been criticised by supporters for not investing enough in the playing squad and the current contract situation with the club’s three biggest stars.
Also, principal owner John W. Henry was forced to release an apology after the club attempted to join the original European Super League plans in April 2021.
This is one to keep a close eye on.
In other Liverpool news, an injury update has emerged on Diogo Jota for the Champions League clash with Lille.
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