Mark Walter and Todd Boehly ‘in talks’ to sell Chelsea shares to Clearlake Capital — reports

The Financial Times has reported that Todd Boehly and Mark Walter, co-owners of Chelsea, are reportedly in discussions to sell their shares to Clearlake Capital. Clearlake Capital, a private investment firm, previously bought the club from Roman Abramovich in a sale forced by the UK government four years ago. Currently, Clearlake owns approximately 61.5% of the club, with Boehly, Walter, and Hansjörg Wyss owning the remaining 38.5% roughly equally.

The identities of the parties involved in the potential sale are not entirely clear, as it remains uncertain if Hansjörg Wyss intends to sell his share as well. Despite the unequal ownership structure, Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, Clearlake's managing partner, were named co-controlling owners. However, over the years, their differing ideologies on various aspects of the club's operations, such as player signings, head coaches, and stadium plans, have resulted in significant disagreements.

In recent years, there have been rumors of both parties looking to purchase each other's shares, but a resolution has yet to be reached. Earlier this year, Boehly has become increasingly less involved in the club's management. On the other hand, Mark Walter has faced financial scrutiny due to some of his previous dealings and has been divesting various assets, including a sale of his stake in the LA Lakers.

While there is no direct connection between Walter's financial issues and the potential sale, it may suggest that Boehly could benefit from cashing in his remaining shares. According to The Telegraph, a deal between Boehly and Clearlake could potentially value Chelsea at over £5 billion, which would almost double Boehly's initial investment.