Gareth Bale is reportedly preparing to front an American private equity group's takeover bid for League One side "Plymouth Argyle". The Welsh football icon, who hung up his boots in January 2023, appears ready to dive into club ownership following his retirement from playing.
The former "Real Madrid" star has been linked with a US-based investment group that includes members of the wealthy Storch family. This potential deal would make Bale the latest high-profile name to get involved with American ownership in the English Football League.
Interestingly, Bale has maintained strong connections to the United States since ending his playing career with "Los Angeles FC" and continues to spend significant time across the Atlantic.
A source close to the negotiations told us: > "Talks are progressing well, though nothing is finalized yet. Gareth sees real potential in Plymouth despite their recent relegation."
"Plymouth" chairman Simon Hallett has been actively seeking fresh investment for the past year. He previously had an agreement with potential investors that fell through earlier this year.
"We have been in talks with a prospective new investor for over a year," Hallett stated recently. "Unfortunately, negotiations have taken too long and key information has not been forthcoming."
The timing is intriguing as Bale's former "Real Madrid" teammate Luka Modric recently purchased a minority stake in "Swansea City" – and reportedly sought Bale's advice before completing that deal. Seems like the Welshman got a taste for football investment!
Bale would join other celebrities venturing into English football ownership, including NFL legend Tom Brady ("Birmingham City") and golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas ("Leeds United").
The "Pilgrims" were relegated from the Championship last season, finishing 23rd – ironically just one place ahead of Bale's boyhood club "Cardiff City". The club recently appointed former Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley as head coach on a three-year deal.
Despite having no previous connection to Plymouth, Bale appears ready to back the club's push for promotion. Will his star power and business connections help restore "Plymouth's" fortunes? The Pilgrims' faithful certainly hope so.
