Gareth Bale is reportedly preparing to front a US-based private equity group's takeover bid for League One side "Plymouth Argyle." The former Wales international, who retired from professional football in January 2023, could become the latest high-profile name to enter football ownership.
According to reports, negotiations are currently ongoing between the investment group – which includes members of the wealthy American-based Storch family – and the League One club. Bale, who finished his playing career with "Los Angeles FC," continues to spend significant time in America following his retirement.
"We have been in talks with a prospective new investor in our club for over a year," – explained Plymouth chairman Simon Hallett recently, though he was referring to a previous deal that fell through.
Interestingly, Bale has no previous connection to "Plymouth," making this potential move somewhat unexpected. The club recently suffered relegation from the Championship, finishing 23rd last season – just one place ahead of Bale's boyhood club "Cardiff City."
The Welshman wouldn't be the first celebrity to invest in an English football club. His former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric has already purchased a minority stake in "Swansea City." In fact, it's understood Modric even sought Bale's advice before finalizing that deal.
Other notable celebrity investors in English football include NFL legend Tom Brady, who bought into "Birmingham City," and American golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, who acquired shares in "Leeds United" before their Premier League promotion.
Plymouth's chairman has been actively seeking fresh investment over the past 12 months. The club has already undergone significant changes, appointing Tom Cleverley as head coach on a three-year contract following Miron Muslic's departure to Schalke.
Could Bale's potential involvement signal a new era for the Pilgrims? Football fans will be watching closely to see if this former superstar can translate his on-field success to the boardroom.
