UEFA is investigating Lille’s unclear ownership situation as the Elliott Fund, which controls Milan, could still be part of it in some form. Their statutes don’t allow it, while both teams have participated in the Continental Cup for the last two seasons.
Corresponding L’EquipeElliott briefly took over Gerard Lopez’s position as principal creditor in December 2020. It then sold the shares to the Luxembourg fund Merlyn Partners, which bought up the debt through the new company Callisto Sporting.
The company contains shares called “A2”, whose value is merely legal and whose possession confers veto power. Birch International and Birch Associates are among those who own them and reside at the same address as Elliott in West Palm Beach, Delaware. Therefore, it would reportedly still affect Lille, in addition to owning Milan, despite not playing an official role in the French team. Additionally, CEO Paul’s son, Gordon Singer, has ties to Merlyn.
UEFA refused to comment on the situation: “We monitor every club that takes part in our competitions.” The two sides have orchestrated a number of deals in recent seasons. That Rossoneri acquired Mike Maignan and Rafael Leao and are currently pursuing Sven Botman and Renato Sanches.
In addition, Middle East fund Investcorp has expressed interest in acquiring Milan and Lille, the French publication reports. It was founded in Bahrain in 1982. It specializes in private equity and has €40 billion in assets under management. Corresponding Bloombergthey are in talks to buy that Rossoneri for €1.1 billion.
