Trent Alexander-Arnold has reportedly expressed interest in becoming the next owner of French football club FC Nantes, according to a surprising story that surfaced on Friday. The news has caught many off guard, as the Liverpool full-back is widely known for his talents on the pitch, rather than his off-field business ventures. However, this move suggests Alexander-Arnold is looking to expand his interests beyond football and enter the world of sports ownership.
According to *L’Equipe*, a well-known French outlet, Alexander-Arnold’s father, Michael Arnold, is playing a key role in the proposed acquisition. He is said to be backing the venture through a London-based investment firm, which could provide the necessary financial muscle to make the deal a reality. This backing is crucial, as the proposed takeover bid is reportedly valued at a significant £83.8 million. Discussions with Waldemar Kita, the current owner of FC Nantes, reportedly began last summer, hinting that this is not a sudden move but rather a well-thought-out plan.
Despite these reports, the story took another turn when representatives from FC Nantes denied any ongoing discussions with Liverpool’s No.66. This raises questions about the validity of the takeover rumors. However, it’s important to note that such denials are not uncommon in the early stages of negotiations, especially in high-stakes deals like this one. If the reports coming out of France hold any truth, Alexander-Arnold could indeed be on his way to purchasing a club in Ligue 1, a move that would certainly add another chapter to his growing off-field profile.
The current owner of FC Nantes, Waldemar Kita, has been at the helm for several years, but his tenure has not been without controversy. He is said to be unpopular among the club’s fanbase, with many supporters critical of how he has managed the team. This has led to speculation that Kita may be willing to sell the club, especially if the right offer comes along. With Alexander-Arnold’s potential financial backing, this could be an ideal opportunity for both parties. For Kita, it could be a way out of an increasingly tense situation with the fans, and for Alexander-Arnold, it would mark a significant step into the world of football ownership.
It’s also worth noting that this wouldn’t be Alexander-Arnold’s first foray into sports-related investments. The England international has already dipped his toes into the world of Formula 1 by investing in the Alpine team. His experience there may have sparked a deeper interest in business ventures, particularly those related to sports. Given his passion for football, it’s not entirely surprising that he’s now considering ownership of a club, especially one in a prestigious league like Ligue 1.
Still, the idea of a current player balancing his career with the responsibilities of owning a football club feels a bit unconventional. Alexander-Arnold is, after all, still at the peak of his playing career with Liverpool, where he plays a crucial role as one of the top full-backs in Europe. The prospect of him juggling the demands of top-level football with the complexities of running a club may seem far-fetched to some, but it also speaks to his ambition and forward-thinking mindset.
As the story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Alexander-Arnold is not content with limiting his success to the football pitch. His potential purchase of FC Nantes, if it goes through, could signal the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that sees him transition from player to owner. Whether this bold move will come to fruition remains to be seen, but it has certainly captured the attention of the football world.