REPORT: The EFL ‘approves’ the £60 million majority takeover of Sunderland’s Championship rivals.

Next week, Sunderland’s opponents should finish their majority takeover.

West Brom, Sunderland’s rivals in the Championship, have now received permission to proceed with the majority takeover of the team by Florida-based businessman Shilen Patel and his father.

The EFL has granted permission to Patel, who has owned a minority stake in Bologna, a Serie A club, since 2014. Patel plans to purchase Guochuan Lai’s 87.8% ownership of the Albion. In an official statement, the club confirmed the news and stated that the takeover is anticipated to be finished the following week.

“West Bromwich Albion Group Limited, the parent company of West Bromwich Albion Football Club, has reached an agreement to acquire an 87.8% shareholding in Bilkul Football WBA, LLC, a company ultimately owned by Florida-based entrepreneur Shilen Patel and his father Dr. Kiran C. Patel. The EFL has approved the takeover, and next week is when the exchange and completion will happen.”

After the £60 million deal is completed, Patel will become chairman of West Brom, a team that is vying for promotion to the Premier League at the end of the current season and is currently ranked fifth in the Championship table.

Patel has worked in the food and beverage industry, real estate, technology, healthcare, and sports. He is anticipated to be present at this evening’s West Brom vs. Southampton game at the Hawthorns.

“I am thrilled and grateful to have reached an agreement to become the custodian of West Bromwich Albion Football Club,” the businessman stated in reference to his impending takeover of the team. The club stands out even in this, the birthplace of football, thanks to its remarkable history, support, and potential.

“My objective is to assist the team in realizing a future deserving of its legacy as a cutting-edge elite team that summons the pride and fervor that have typified the Albion for many years. I am eager to begin work at The Hawthorns and anticipate that the agreement will be finalized the following week.”