Town Confirm £44M Takeover Bid

Last updated : 31 October 2007 By ITFM
The proposed investment into the club will include £32M to purchase the clubs current debts, with a further £12M to be invested into the club through the issue of new shares, which will result in Evans owning 87.5% of the clubs shares therefore becoming the majority shareholder and owner.

Confirming the news to the Official Club Website, Town Chairman David Sheepshanks said: "Marcus Evans' investment is potentially great news for Ipswich Town Football Club. The Board have been in discussion with Marcus Evans for some time.

"We are pleased now to be able to make this announcement about the deal, that when completed, will enable further investment in Jim Magilton's team building and our quest to bring Premiership football back to Portman Road."

Confirming the news Evans himself said: "I am delighted to be able to support the Club of which I have long been an admirer. I believe that Ipswich Town has great potential to build upon its rich footballing heritage.

"The Club has an excellent reputation, both on the pitch and off it, as part of the local community, and this has played a big part in attracting me here.

"The Board has done a good job in difficult conditions under the stewardship of David Sheepshanks who will continue in his role as Chairman, with the support of a strong executive management team. Jim Magilton and the squad have made a terrific start to the season and will have my full support."

The bid now needs to go through a period of due diligence before being recommended to shareholders and holding a vote at e general meeting.