Former Barça Player to Buy Espanyol and Going All In: 300 Million
Espanyol has been up for sale for a while and this could come to an end in the coming months. This time, the interested party isn’t a billionaire entrepreneur but a former FC Barcelona player who wants to own it. We’re talking about Martin Braithwaite, who left his mark in Cornellà and is interested in becoming the new owner of the “perico” team.
La Grada, a media outlet focused on Espanyol, has reported that Braithwaite has hired one of the most prestigious law firms in Spain to handle this operation. He’s willing to make a significant investment, although he’s seeking the help of an investment group to settle a proposal that’s well-received by the fans.
Martin Braithwaite has informed Espanyol of his intention to take ownership of the club and is currently analyzing its status. The interest isreal,and he’s seriously preparing to make a proposal that could convince its current owner, Chinese Chen Yansheng.
Martin Braithwaite and a Fortune Exceeding $300 Million
The truth is that Martin Braithwaite had enough money to execute the purchase of Espanyol, as long as he’s joined by an investment group. His real estate fortune in the United States exceeds €230 million, in addition to managing a long list of projects.
Beyond real estate, Martin Braithwaite has other important businesses. In Gavà, he owns the restaurant Braithwaite’s Kitchenwith his wife. Meanwhile, in his sports career (he’s now at Gremio), he’s also amassed a significant fortune.Martin Braithwaite | Getty Images
With the money he’s earned, the Dane is interested in acquiring Espanyol’s ownership, but first, he’s analyzing the entire case. He needs to understand the club’s financial health before making a definitive proposal. He also hopes to have financial partners in this endeavor.
Espanyol Has a Price, and Martin Braithwaite Can Pay It
About a year ago, the current owner of the Catalonian team, Chen Yansheng, put Espanyol up for sale for around €120 million. This increased its total price by 50 “rocks” if they achieved promotion to the First Division.
In total, we’re talking about €170 million for the “perico” team. That is aprice Martin Braithwaite could easily pay to become the new majority shareholder of Espanyol.