12 May 2010Chinese tycoon 'interested in Liverpool buyout'

Football Clubs News | Football Finance News

A Chinese internet gaming company has reportedly held preliminary discussions about a possible takeover offer for Liverpool.

The Reds' controversial owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks are looking to sell the club in the face of increasing opposition from supporters and sources close to Zhu Jun, founder of Shanghai firm The9, have claimed he is considering making a move.

Although no formal bid has been made, the Independent claims Zhu has spoken with Barclays Capital - who have been tasked by the Americans with finding a buyer - and is apparently "very interested" in taking control of the Anfield side.

Liverpool were formally put up for sale in April and Zhu's business has racked up around £60 million since its flotation on the Nasdaq stock exchange four years ago. The entrepreneur also owns a majority holding in Chinese Super League outfit Shanghai Shenhua.

Last week, it was revealed that the team's arrears had escalated by £54.9 million to a total of £472.5 million.

Written by Terry Mitchell

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