Hollywood star Michael B Jordan has become one of Bournemouth's new owners, with the south coast club confirming that their sale to a US-based consortium has received Premier League approval.
Businessman Bill Foley and the Black Knight FC group featuring Jordan had been in negotiations with wantaway Russian-born businessman Maxim Demin for several months. The takeover, which is worth more than £100m, had been agreed several weeks ago but remained subject to Premier League approval.
That has now come through, the club have confirmed. Jordan is expected to offer guidance around marketing and growing Bournemouth as an international brand. Entrepreneur Nullah Sarker is also part of the Black Knight group.
Foley, 77, served in the US Air Force before becoming an attorney and making his money in insurance services. He has seen Bournemouth in action already this season and was pictured in the stands during the 2-1 win over Leicester.
The Texan has experience of running a sports team having been awarded an ice hockey expansion franchise in Las Vegas six years ago. His Golden Knights team reached the Stanley Cup finals in their debut campaign.
“I have tremendous respect for the passion and support the Bournemouth community shows for this club and believe that connection to the community is the foundation for success of any sports team,” Foley said.
“We will move forward with an ‘always advance, never retreat’ approach that has defined all of my endeavours. I am committed to work with the best football and business minds available to enhance player development, facilities, and the fan experience to put AFC Bournemouth in the best possible position to succeed.”
He went on to praise Demin, the now British citizen who took control at Dean Court with the club in League One 11 years ago in a deal worth less than £1m, who will now focus on other business interests.
“Without the belief and financial backing of Maxim and his family, AFC Bournemouth might well have ceased to exist," Foley added.
"Maxim’s support and involvement has allowed the club to establish itself as a top-flight team. We’d like to thank him for his co-operation throughout the process and praise his hard work whilst owner of the club. We wish him well as he focusses on his other business endeavours.”
