Sheffield Wednesday’s takeover has fallen through, sending the club back into crisis.

The proposed takeover of Sheffield Wednesday by the Bord consortium has officially fallen through, plunging the troubled Championship side back into uncertainty only days after their relegation to League One was confirmed.

The collapse of the deal has been attributed to discrepancies between the consortium’s original bid for the club and a later valuation, as well as substantial unknown costs linked to the redevelopment and upgrading of Hillsborough, the club’s historic stadium. However, insiders have indicated that complications surrounding the structure of the bid and concerns over the origins of the funding ultimately proved decisive.

Sheffield Wednesday have already been relegated from the Championship after suffering two separate points deductions this season

Manager Henrik Pedersen now faces the unenviable task of steering the club’s thread-bare, young squad through the rest of the season

As a result, Wednesday are once again effectively on the market, with other interested parties believed to be monitoring the situation and prepared to move should the opportunity arise.

Last week, it emerged that the group headed by former professional poker player and Dunfermline Athletic co-owner James Bord had submitted a fresh set of documents to the Independent Football Regulator. The submission followed questions regarding the source of the funds involved in the bid, particularly due to the participation of overseas companies within the consortium.

It has now been disclosed that the consortium’s offer was believed to be nearer £40 million, rather than the previously reported £32.5 million. The group also included German crypto casino entrepreneur Felix Romer and Alsharif Faisal Bin Jamil, a member of the Jordanian royal family and a sports investor.

A spokesperson for the consortium confirmed their withdrawal, expressing regret at the outcome. They explained that constraints placed upon their ability to renegotiate the deal were a major factor, especially as their proposed figure was significantly higher than what was justified following an extensive due diligence process.

The spokesperson added that the consortium had a strong history of revitalising football clubs through financial stability, careful management, and sound governance. They stated that they had genuinely believed they could serve as long-term custodians of one of English football’s most historic institutions and help steer Sheffield Wednesday toward a brighter future. Despite their disappointment, they emphasised that their admiration for the club and its supporters remained undiminished.

Bin Jamil also commented publicly on the collapse of the takeover. He described Sheffield Wednesday as a hugely historic club and admitted that the consortium had been excited at the prospect of acquiring it. Drawing attention to their experience in turning around struggling clubs, he said they had been looking forward to applying that expertise to what he described as football royalty.

However, he acknowledged that the dream could not continue. After completing a detailed due diligence review, the consortium concluded that the club’s true value was considerably lower than the figure they were authorised to proceed with under the exclusivity agreement. He stressed that they did not apportion blame to the administrators or any other parties, stating that the numbers simply did not justify moving forward.

Bin Jamil revealed that significant funds had already been invested during the process and that there were considerable sunk costs. Nevertheless, the substantial gap between their bid and the final valuation made continuation impossible. He highlighted Hillsborough as one of the primary concerns, noting that the group had hired a structural specialist to assess the stadium. That evaluation was completed earlier this week, and discussions had been ongoing in an attempt to find a viable path forward.

The Bord consortium had been granted preferred bidder status on Christmas Eve. Sheffield Wednesday had entered administration after former owner Dejphon Chansiri ended his tenure in October following a turbulent period.

Other potential buyers had expressed interest, including former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley. Additionally, earlier this week, another consortium led by American entrepreneur David Storch stated in an interview with BBC Radio Sheffield that they remained deeply interested in acquiring the club and were ready to step in if another opportunity arose.

As part of their involvement, the Bord group had provided a non-refundable £2.5 million bond and funding to ensure the club could complete the remainder of the season. However, Sunday’s defeat to local rivals Sheffield United confirmed Wednesday’s relegation. With a squad heavily depleted by player departures and the club operating under a combined 18-point deduction, they now sit on minus seven points.

With the takeover deal abandoned, Sheffield Wednesday face renewed uncertainty as they prepare for life in League One and search once again for stable new ownership.

Billionaire is prepared to act and purchase Sheffield Wednesday if Bord does not succeed

A billionaire investor is reportedly poised to move for Sheffield Wednesday should the James Bord-led consortium fail to complete its proposed takeover, according to talkSPORT.

Relegation to League One was always looming over Wednesday’s season. Perhaps not specifically on Sunday, perhaps not at Bramall Lane, and certainly not as early as February, but the trajectory had been clear for months. Long before the Steel City derby, the club’s Championship survival hopes were hanging by a thread.

A 12-point deduction handed down in October after the club entered administration dealt a crushing blow. Matters worsened in December when a further six points were removed for repeated breaches of EFL payment regulations. On the pitch, results offered little resistance to the inevitable. Wednesday managed just a single Championship victory all season, dating back to September.

By the time Henrik Pedersen led his injury-hit and confidence-sapped squad out against their fiercest rivals, they required nothing short of a footballing miracle to preserve their status. Instead, history was made for all the wrong reasons. Wednesday became the first club in English Football League history to suffer relegation as early as February.

An early strike from Patrick Bamford immediately set the tone of the derby. Harrison Burrows added a second before the half-hour mark, deepening the sense of inevitability. Although Kalvin Phillips was sent off shortly after the restart and Wednesday managed to reduce the deficit, the belief that they could find the crucial equaliser never truly materialised.

When Gabriel Otegbayo collected his second yellow card in the closing minute, extinguishing any faint remaining hope, the final act of a painful campaign was complete.

“It’s painful that a club like Sheffield Wednesday is relegated in February,” Pedersen admitted after the final whistle.

He maintained that both players and staff had given everything within their control. While his sentiment carried sincerity, it could not disguise the fact that the writing had been on the wall for a considerable time. Being relegated is always difficult; being condemned by your fiercest rivals, on their own turf and in front of their supporters, adds a layer of humiliation that words struggle to ease.

Off the field, uncertainty continues to cloud the club’s immediate future.

Wednesday remain in administration, with the ownership situation dragging on without resolution. James Bord, the sports analytics entrepreneur identified as the preferred bidder on Christmas Eve, is still awaiting EFL approval for his £32.5 million offer.

Those close to Bord’s camp suggest he aims to finalise the acquisition by early April. However, timing could complicate matters. The Independent Football Regulator is scheduled to assume responsibility for ownership vetting from the EFL by May. Should the process stretch further, Bord may find himself subject to an entirely new layer of examination and scrutiny.

If the proposed takeover collapses altogether, another figure is reportedly ready to act.

According to talkSPORT, Mike Ashley is “waiting in the wings.” The former owner of Newcastle United and billionaire businessman had previously expressed interest before Bord emerged as the leading candidate. Now, sources suggest Ashley remains open to stepping in, depending on how the current bid unfolds.

Ashley’s potential arrival would undoubtedly divide opinion among supporters. His tenure at Newcastle was marked by sustained criticism from fans who questioned his investment levels and long-term vision for the club. For a Wednesday fanbase already reeling from a historically early relegation at the hands of their biggest rivals, the prospect of Ashley entering as a rescuer may feel far from comforting.

Yet circumstances at Hillsborough leave little room for selectiveness. With League One football confirmed for next season, financial stability and decisive leadership have become urgent priorities. Administration has already inflicted significant damage, both reputationally and competitively. Prolonged uncertainty could further hinder the club’s ability to rebuild and plan for promotion.

The broader context makes the situation even more pressing. Relegation in February underscores just how severely structural and financial issues undermined the campaign. Points deductions proved insurmountable, but deeper operational failings compounded the crisis. Recovering from such a season will require not only investment but coherent long-term planning.

Supporters now face a difficult dual reality. On one hand, they must reconcile themselves to life in League One after a humbling campaign. On the other, they wait anxiously to see who will ultimately take control of the club’s future.

Bord’s bid remains alive, and completion by early April would offer clarity before regulatory transitions complicate matters further. However, delays increase the possibility that alternative investors, including Ashley, could re-enter the frame more prominently.

For now, Hillsborough exists in a state of limbo. The pain of relegation is fresh, the wounds from administration still open, and the ownership saga unresolved. What once was a proud Championship side must now prepare for the rigours of the third tier while hoping that stability arrives off the pitch.

League One awaits Sheffield Wednesday. The lingering question is not whether they will compete there next season—that has already been settled—but rather who will be steering the club through what promises to be a defining chapter in its long and turbulent history.

Sheffield United considering summer swoop for “very talented” £9m striker famed for explosive pace

Sheffield United are reportedly weighing up a summer transfer for a highly rated striker described as “very talented” and recognised for his explosive speed.

Blades join pursuit of attacking reinforcement

Despite currently sitting 14th in the EFL Championship table, the Blades remain just six points shy of the play-off positions. Back-to-back victories have reignited hope, with their most recent triumph coming in a 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday in the Steel City derby.

That result marked Chris Wilder’s fourth consecutive victory over their fierce city rivals. The occasion carried extra significance, as the defeat confirmed the Owls’ relegation from the Championship.

Veteran forward Patrick Bamford wasted little time making an impact, scoring just two minutes into the derby. The 32-year-old has now registered eight Championship goals in 16 appearances since arriving at Bramall Lane in November.

However, Bamford’s injury history remains a concern. During the 2024-25 season with Leeds United, he missed 16 matches, and given his age, Wilder may be eager to recruit a younger centre-forward capable of leading the line in the long term.

Daniel Karlsbakk emerges as key target

According to Sports Boom, Sheffield United are now targeting Daniel Karlsbakk, currently playing for Sarpsborg 08. The Norwegian side are reportedly prepared to sanction a transfer for a fee between €8 million and €10 million — approximately £7 million to £9 million.

The Blades could face competition, though. Championship rivals Middlesbrough FC have also identified Karlsbakk as their leading attacking target for the upcoming transfer window.

At 22, Karlsbakk has built a reputation for his explosive pace and relentless work-rate. In addition to his speed, he is capable of operating as a traditional target man, offering physical presence as well as mobility. Sheffield United are hopeful that, should they fall short of Premier League promotion this season, he could spearhead a renewed push next year.

A breakout season in Norway

While Karlsbakk’s overall career record has been mixed, his return to Norway in 2025 has sparked a dramatic upturn in form.

His attacking statistics across previous clubs highlight the contrast:

• Heerenveen: 39 appearances, 2 goals
• Sarpsborg 08: 33 appearances, 21 goals
• Viking: 30 appearances, 2 goals
• Bryne: 30 appearances, 5 goals

The forward truly flourished in the Eliteserien last season, scoring 18 league goals to finish as the division’s top scorer. That prolific campaign has elevated his profile significantly and attracted attention from clubs across Europe.

Admiration from peers

Karlsbakk’s performances have not gone unnoticed by fellow professionals. Mathias Lovik, currently with Trabzonspor, publicly praised his compatriot amid speculation linking the striker with a January move to Turkey.

Lovik described Karlsbakk as one of his closest friends and acknowledged the unpredictability of football transfers. He admitted that sharing a team with him would be a dream and labelled him a very talented player, expressing curiosity about how the situation would unfold.

Is the Championship the right next step?

Although Karlsbakk’s recent form suggests significant potential, a move directly to the Premier League may be premature. His standout campaign in Norway represents his first truly prolific season at senior level.

A switch to the Championship could provide the ideal stepping stone. The league’s physicality and intensity would test his all-round game while offering a competitive platform to continue his development.

For Sheffield United, the appeal is clear. With Bamford entering the latter stages of his career and durability concerns lingering, investing in a dynamic young striker could future-proof their attacking options. Karlsbakk’s combination of pace, energy and goal-scoring instinct makes him an intriguing prospect.

Should the Blades miss out on promotion this term, adding a forward capable of delivering consistent goals could be decisive in their ambitions next season. If Karlsbakk can replicate his Eliteserien form in England, he may well prove to be a shrewd acquisition — and potentially the catalyst for a return to the top flight.

Mutual admiration between Millwall and Portsmouth: “Respect to them… genuine fanbase… great atmosphere at The Den.”

There was a notable sense of mutual respect between Millwall and Portsmouth supporters following their Championship meeting at The Den, with fans from both sides sharing passionate reactions after the final whistle. While rivalries in English football can often turn hostile, this clash produced a refreshing exchange of praise, honest reflection and admiration for the atmosphere generated by two fiercely loyal fanbases.

One supporter sparked debate by pointing out the contrast between Portsmouth and their south coast neighbours. They remarked how surprising it is that Portsmouth and Southampton are geographically so close and, in many ways, culturally similar, yet Pompey’s support appears vastly superior. The comment suggested that despite the proximity of the two cities, the intensity, loyalty and vocal backing of Portsmouth fans stand out on another level. It was a provocative take, but one that reflects how highly many regard Pompey’s travelling support.

Even among rival fans, there was clear acknowledgment of Portsmouth’s quality — both on and off the pitch. One Millwall follower admitted that although they cannot stand Pompey, credit must be given where it’s due. Portsmouth completed a league double over them, taking six points across the season, and their away backing at The Den was described as exceptional. The fan labelled them a “proper fanbase,” highlighting the noise and unity they brought to South London. In a candid assessment of Millwall’s performance, they added that goalkeeper Max Crocombe was the only real positive in the home side’s lineup.

The atmosphere inside the stadium was a recurring theme in the online reaction. Observers noted that Portsmouth’s travelling supporters created such volume that, at times, it felt like a home fixture for the visitors. The scenes in the away end were widely praised, with many describing it as one of the standout away followings seen at The Den in recent seasons.

Positive experiences extended beyond the ninety minutes. One Portsmouth supporter shared their appreciation for the hospitality shown by Millwall fans before kickoff. After visiting the club café and speaking with numerous locals off camera, they described the reception as friendly and welcoming. They also praised the stewards for their professionalism, explaining that everything ran smoothly from arrival to departure. For that fan, it encapsulated what makes football special — passionate rivalry on the pitch, but mutual respect off it.

Several Millwall fans were equally generous in their praise. One admitted that Portsmouth deserved recognition for the strength of their away section and even expressed hope that Pompey avoid relegation. They reasoned that if Millwall fail to secure promotion, having Portsmouth remain in the division would at least guarantee two compelling fixtures again next season — home and away encounters charged with energy and atmosphere.

The noise inside The Den was widely celebrated. Supporters from both camps highlighted how refreshing it was to witness two traditional football fanbases creating a raw, authentic environment. There were no accusations of “plastic” support or tourists more interested in recording on their phones than backing their team. Instead, it was described as proper football culture — loud, committed and passionate from start to finish.

On the pitch, Portsmouth’s performance earned significant admiration. One Millwall supporter conceded that Pompey not only deserved the victory but managed the match intelligently. Game management was singled out as a strength, with the visitors controlling key moments and showing composure when it mattered. There was even confidence expressed that Portsmouth will comfortably secure their Championship status.

Another fan reflected on why they have always had a soft spot for Pompey. They praised the size of their support, the constant noise, and the way the players responded with determination and fight. According to that view, Portsmouth’s squad matched the intensity of their followers, culminating in jubilant celebrations at the final whistle. Interestingly, the same supporter admitted feeling envious — explaining that the qualities admired in Pompey are the very traits they cherish about supporting Millwall, yet on this occasion, it was the visitors who delivered.

Attention also turned to individual performances and squad evolution. Optimism surrounded John Swift’s apparent resurgence, with one fan delighted to see renewed determination in his game. Meanwhile, Ebou Adams was hailed as potentially one of the club’s most influential signings in over a decade. The impact he has made since arriving was described as transformative. According to supporters, the difference in competitiveness and cohesion before and after his introduction is stark — almost like watching an entirely new team.

Broader tactical improvements were also acknowledged. Portsmouth were described as playing like a top-six side in recent weeks, and their display at Millwall was labelled magnificent. Observers praised the pace added to both wings following January signings, as well as the balance within midfield — a blend of creativity and steel that has strengthened the team’s spine. Defensive solidity was highlighted too, with centre-backs performing reliably and full-backs showing marked improvement. Such progress has intensified competition for places, to the point where established names like Murphy and Shaughnessy may struggle to reclaim starting roles automatically.

In the end, the fixture was about more than just three points. It showcased two proud clubs with devoted supporters who understand the traditions of English football. The respect exchanged between Millwall and Portsmouth fans illustrated that rivalry does not have to eliminate appreciation. Instead, it can elevate it — creating occasions defined by passion, authenticity and admiration for the beautiful chaos of the Championship.