DIC "not about to buy Liverpool Football Club"

Sep 15 2008

Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum/Tom Hicks/Anfield montage _320

It is still thought that Sheikh Maktoum would still like to buy Liverpool, but that negotiations have not progressed during the summer.

In that time Liverpool’s owners have failed to raise the funds to build a new stadium, and have put back that venture for a year.

Their next problem will come at the end of the year when they have to re-finance their current loans at Liverpool.

It is believed that they have as yet had no indication that the Royal Bank of Scotland, with whom the bulk of their loan finance is involved, will grant a six-month extension.

At that point, Sheikh Maktoum may again become active in trying to buy the club.

But DIC is no longer being utilised in the negotiations. Their statement today said: “Following inaccurate speculation regarding DIC and Liverpool FC, DIC can confirm that it is not involved in any negotiations to buy LFC and can confirm that it is not planning a fresh bid for LFC or any other football club.

“Nor is DIC or any other Dubai-based party aware of any consortium or vehicle involved in a bid.

“DIC has not mandated PCP to act for DIC or to act for them in any matter whatsoever. DIC would like to wish LFC and it’s fans a successful future.”

Gillett met representatives of the Liverpool fans’ group, the Spirit of Shankly, prior to Saturday’s 2-1 win over Manchester United.

The fans made it clear at the meeting that they wanted the American owners to sell up. Gillett and members of Hicks’ family all attended the match.