Barclays may act in Liverpool FC sale

Barclays has been brought in by the owners of Liverpool Football Club in a move that could lead to the sale of the business.

By The Newsroom

Published 11th Apr 2010, 23:42 BST

Updated 11th Apr 2010, 23:42 BST

The bank, which is the main sponsor of the Premier League, is to assess the options for the club through its Barclays Capital arm.

Liverpool, which has been the subject of refinancing speculation, will also install Martin Broughton of British Airways as chairman as part of the move.

It is thought the move would calm fears about Liverpool amid disagreements between the team's United States owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett, over strategy and financing. Fans have campaigned to remove the pair, who have built up debts of 237m.

It is understood the Barclays deal could provide additional funds for club manager Rafa Benitez.

Benitez suggests Liverpool may need to spend as much as 60m in the summer to buy at least three new players to reinvigorate his squad.

It is thought Barclays was attracted to the club by an increase in its sponsorship revenue and the progress it has made on building a new stadium.