AliousThe January transfer window is fast approaching, and Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has ambitious plans that could have significant repercussions for the club’s investor, John Textor. While Crystal Palace has faced challenges on the pitch, a power struggle behind the scenes has also emerged, drawing considerable attention.
Reports indicate that Textor, who owns 45% of the club, is considering selling his stake in Crystal Palace. However, tensions over his role at Selhurst Park have been growing, as he has reportedly expressed a desire to gain full ownership of the club. Textor’s ambition to expand his football holdings has also led him to explore a potential takeover of Everton, a move that ultimately fell through due to new investors closing in on a deal there.
This leaves the American businessman in a precarious position, particularly as his French club, Lyon, faces the prospect of provisional relegation due to financial difficulties. Adding to his troubles, Steve Parish’s latest moves at Crystal Palace could further complicate Textor’s situation.
### **Steve Parish’s January Plans Could Impact Textor’s Stake**
Crystal Palace co-owner Steve Parish is reportedly preparing for a major spending spree during the January transfer window to bolster manager Oliver Glasner’s squad. While the immediate goal is to strengthen the team, the financial implications extend to the boardroom.
According to Alan Nixon on Patreon, significant spending in January could lead to a dilution of Textor’s shares if he fails to contribute his portion of the investment.
Nixon explained, *“Crystal Palace supremo Steve Parish and his American pals are ready to spend in the next window. And that may put the squeeze on ‘rogue’ shareholder John Textor to cough up or clear out.”*
Parish, along with American co-owners David Blitzer and Josh Harris, is reportedly planning to invest in new attackers during the winter window.
Under the terms of their agreement with Textor, any spending requires him to contribute his share. If Textor cannot meet his financial obligations, his ownership stake could be diluted.
This potential scenario adds more pressure on Textor, who may feel compelled to finalize the sale of his stake before the January window begins.
Combined with Lyon’s financial troubles, the coming months could prove extremely challenging for the businessman.
### **John Textor’s Football Ventures**
John Textor’s foray into football began relatively recently, in 2021, when he purchased a significant stake in Crystal Palace. Since then, he has expanded his portfolio through Eagle Football Holdings Limited, acquiring stakes in several clubs:
– **Crystal Palace** – 45% stake
– **Botafogo (Brazil)** – 90% stake
– **RWD Molenbeek (Belgium)** – 80% stake
– **Lyon (France)** – 77.5% stake
The success of these ventures has been mixed. Botafogo is performing strongly in Brazil’s Serie A and is in contention for the league title, but Lyon is grappling with severe financial issues and the threat of relegation.
Textor’s current challenges—including the dilution threat at Crystal Palace, Lyon’s struggles, and the failed Everton bid—highlight the complexities of his football ownership strategy. As the January transfer window approaches, his ability to navigate these challenges will be critical to his standing in the football world.
Alious
