NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is reportedly in talks to join the ownership group of West Ham United, making him the latest American sports star to invest in English soccer.
The 52-year-old former pivot became interested in becoming a shareholder of the Premier League side after attending one of their matches last season. According to sources, O’Neal “loved” the experience and is now exploring whether his finances align with the opportunity.
The Sun newspaper confirmed that the NBA star is considering investing a significant amount of money in West Ham. If the deal goes through, O’Neal will join the likes of Tom Brady, JJ Watt, and LeBron James as American sports stars who have invested in English soccer.
It’s worth noting that West Ham recently appointed Spaniard Julen Lopetegui as their manager for the upcoming season. Lopetegui will be tasked with leading the Hammers to success on the pitch.
While West Ham may not be the only English club attracting American investors, it’s not just the Premier League that has caught their attention. Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney recently became owners of Wrexham, a Welsh club that plays in the English football pyramid.
With more and more American sports stars and celebrities looking to invest in English soccer, it will be interesting to see how this trend continues to shape the landscape of the sport.
