Sheffield United’s owners have been unable to deny claims that the Owls’ managers have proposed an unusual merger with rivals Sheffield Wednesday.
Sheffield United’s owners have been unable to deny claims they have contacted the managers of neighboring Sheffield Wednesday to hint at an unusual merger between the Steel City rivals.
United defeated a depleted Wednesday side 3-0 at Hillsborough on Sunday, leaving the Owls, who have been in the midst of one of the most turbulent periods in the club’s history, at the bottom of the Championship with four points.
Unlucky Thai tuna king Dejpon Chansiri was forced into government last month on Wednesday after failing to pay his wages on five of the past seven paydays.
Administrators from insolvency specialist Begbies Traynor are currently overseeing the sale process and hope to select a preferred bidder by December 4.
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It is understood that 12 parties have submitted proof of funds worth £50m, with five of those parties currently making offers to take over the beleaguered Championship side.
But reports on Tuesday said United’s American owners CHO Sports, led by businessmen Steven Rosen and Helmy Eltorky, were interested in signing Wednesday and merging the Sheffield teams.
The idea was met with disbelief on social media from supporters of both sides. United released a statement on Wednesday expressing their delight at the derby win, but did not acknowledge there was an elephant in the room.
“Our 3-0 wins in local derbies on Sunday and Wednesday were definitely the boost we all needed after a tougher than expected start to the season.”
“Like you, we are obviously disappointed with the start to the season, even more so when we consider this season in the context of how close we came to winning promotion to the Premier League last May.
“As owners and managers of the club, we have great confidence that with your support and targeted additions to the squad, we can quickly move up the table and get back to where we belong.
“But let us be under no illusions. Bringing regular Premier League football to Sheffield United is why we are here. We are doing everything we can to further modernize the club and put it in the strongest position to compete.”
Meanwhile, the Telegraph reported that former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has offered the Owls a bid of around £20 million. He has attracted interest from around the world, including from US billionaire John McEvoy.
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