The 49ers are “close” to agreeing to terms to take over Scottish Premiership club Rangers in a deal that could be completed “before the end of the season.” BBC Sport reported the “multi-million pound deal is ‘expected to be completed between April and June.’” Paraag Marathe, president of the 49ers Enterprises, the investment wing of the 49ers, is said to be a “key figure in the negotiations.” Another “high net work individual, who has so far remained anonymous, is also said to be involved” in the U.S.-based consortium’s takeover efforts. Marathe was “at the forefront of the deal” that saw 49ers Enterprises take ownership of English club Leeds United in 2023. Scottish FA rules on dual ownership “would prevent 49ers Enterprises from obtaining a controlling stake in Rangers on its own” due to its Leeds United ownership, but it “appears that the involvement of other investors will ensure any new regime will be able to secure enough shares to take over the running of” the club (THE SCOTSMAN, 2/20).
Report: 49ers planning takeover of Scottish soccer club
