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Ashley’s £20m Sheffield Wednesday Bid Rejected as Administrators Weigh Higher Offers

A preferred bidder decision is expected next week following the rejection of Mike Ashley’s first offer.

Overview

  • Sky Sports reports Mike Ashley’s initial offer of about £20m was turned down, with the sale price thought to be closer to double that and rival bids already exceeding £30m.
  • Begbies Traynor is considering credible proposals from three parties, with two more poised to move, and aims to grant preferred-bidder status by around 5 December.
  • Interested groups must evidence at least £50m in available funds to access the data room; Sky says Ashley satisfied the proof-of-funds requirement.
  • Administrators received an email claiming to be from Sheffield United’s owners asking about price and a possible merger, which the EFL and the new regulator would not permit; Sky notes the enquiry may have been a spoof and COH is not among current bidders.
  • Sheffield Wednesday remain in administration with a 12-point deduction and outstanding tax liabilities estimated at about £1m, intensifying the urgency to complete a sale.