William Storey is considering buying Reading.
The co-founder of Rich Energy, a British billionaire, has a history of involvement in sports, including a contentious stint in Formula 1.
Storey has recently made it apparent that he wants to get into football, though, and in the past he was connected to acquisitions of Coventry and Sunderland.
Storey discussed this in an interview with TalkSPORT, confirming that he has made offers to the various teams and explaining how his interest should demonstrate that he is a legitimate contender despite concerns about his suitability for Reading.
“I made bids for Coventry and Sunderland, both of which included lengthy discussions with the EFL. A proposal for Reading would undoubtedly involve the same, and we wouldn’t be making a bid if the EFL process weren’t underway. That’s the closest I can come to describing my particular potential bid. But I’m eager to discuss Reading and what I might offer to football as a potential owner.
In what ways does this relate to reading?
If Storey did get to the point where he could acquire Reading, there are questions over whether he would pass the EFL’s fit and proper person test.
This appears to be his attempt to convey his confidence that there won’t be a problem. Storey claims to have spoken with the EFL in the past, and he sounds confident that his appointment as leader would be approved.
It is obvious that words have little meaning in this situation, and we would have to wait to see how it develops, but it is still unclear whether Storey will actually purchase Reading.
Reading: Will William Storey purchase it?
The businessman wants to get into football, as was previously revealed, and last week it was reported that he had reached an agreement to purchase the team for £50 million.
However, the League One underachievers Royals issued a statement revealing they had not accepted any offers for the club, which was a positive update from the team.
It is therefore obvious that it is not that far along, and it is important to note that the update stated that there are several interested parties, indicating that Storey won’t have a clear shot at the Berkshire company.
What will Reading do next?
Reading has been going through a difficult time, and in the last 18 months or so, the off-field problems have only become worse, costing the team several points.
Overall, it’s critical that a new buyer enters the picture since Dai Yongge’s poor administration over the years has placed the team in a situation where relegation to League Two this season appears to be a serious possibility.
However, Ruben Selles and the club must focus on the game of football in order to be confident that they can produce the results necessary to move up the standings.
On October 21, Reading will return to play as they travel to face Charlton Athletic.
