Preston North End in Talks with Former Chelsea Bidder Amr Zedan
Championship side Preston North End FC has engaged in discussions with Amr Zedan, a US-born Saudi businessman who previously expressed interest in acquiring Chelsea Football Club. Sky News has learned that Zedan, whose business portfolio spans energy and horseracing sectors, has held a series of talks with the board of the historic Lancashire club in recent weeks regarding a potential investment.
Stalled Negotiations and Alternative Options
Sources indicate that these discussions have recently stalled, prompting Preston North End, currently chasing a playoff position, to explore investment opportunities with other parties as well. The club, one of the founding members of the English Football League established in 1888, has been undergoing a strategic review since July 2024, when the Hemmings family enlisted bankers from Rothschild to evaluate options for new investment or a change in ownership.
People close to the club confirm that an ongoing process involves professional and comprehensive talks with various potential buyers and investors. A spokesperson for Amr Zedan stated that discussions began in early December, focusing on an investment aimed at supporting the club's long-term Premier League aspirations. However, the spokesperson criticised a perceived lack of constructive engagement from club owners, emphasising that early transfer window funding was crucial to Zedan's enthusiasm for backing the club, its community, and loyal fan base.
Historical Context and Club Background
Preston North End, originally founded as a cricket club in 1866, boasts a rich football heritage, including legendary player Tom Finney in the 1950s when the team twice finished as runners-up in the top tier. In recent decades, the club has often competed in lower divisions but has maintained a Championship presence since its last promotion in the 2014-15 season.
The club was previously owned by local businessman Trevor Hemmings, who passed away in 2021, and has been led by Peter Ridsdale for the past 15 years. Like many English professional clubs, Preston North End operates at a loss, with owners injecting over £100 million to cover ongoing deficits.
Broader Football Landscape and Regulatory Changes
These investment talks occur amidst a wave of ownership changes across English football, with clubs such as Sheffield Wednesday facing administration and points deductions. The new Independent Football Regulator is set to introduce a licensing regime for club owners in the top five tiers, commencing in the 2027-28 season, which may influence future investment dynamics.
Amr Zedan, who was among numerous prospective buyers during Chelsea's forced sale in 2022, remains open to re-engaging with Preston North End's board but could also redirect his attention to other clubs. The club, chaired by experienced businessman Ian Penrose, continues to navigate these negotiations while maintaining a realistic chance of competing in the end-of-season play-offs for Premier League promotion.
