Former Everton CEO would welcome Dan Friedkin takeover from Farhad Moshiri

Former Everton chief Keith Wyness would welcome Dan Friedkin as the club’s new owner.

Wyness said it was his understanding the Roma owner “listens to football people” - something he took hope from.

The US billionaire emerged as the new frontrunner in the ownership battle on Friday after a week in which competing bids vied for the backing of Farhad Moshiri.

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Everton’s majority shareholder had a series of offers and proposals for the Blues, including bids led by wealthy supporters Andy Bell and George Downing, an international consortium fronted by London-based businessman Vatche Manoukian, and another consortium bid spearheaded by Vici Private Finance. A long list of further parties have also been part of a complex battle of differing interests.

But it is Friedkin, the 59-year-old CEO of the Friedkin Group, who now appears to be in pole position. Providing his view on the development Wyness, who was Everton chief executive between 2004 and 2009, told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “This is a very interesting proposal in my view.

“I’ve talked to sources at Roma, who know how he’s operated and have been very impressed with the way he’s operated.

“He seems to have got to grips with things quickly, he listens to football people – so I’d say that he’s one I would welcome.

“But we need to see more detail. We know he’s got access to the finances, so it could be a quick deal to sort out if he puts a bid in.”