Swansea City’s American majority owners, Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan, are preparing to sell their controlling stake in the club, marking a significant shift in ownership.
The move will see fellow shareholders Andy Coleman, Brett Cravatt, Nigel Morris, and Jason Cohen step up as the new primary stakeholders, aiming to steer the club forward after a challenging period under Kaplan and Levien’s management.
Levien and Kaplan first acquired a 68% stake in Swansea City in 2016, valuing the club between £100 million and £110 million when it was still in the Premier League. Over the years, they expanded their ownership but became increasingly distant, leading to declining involvement and dwindling enthusiasm for the project. Their tenure saw Swansea relegated from the Premier League and face ongoing struggles in the Championship, leaving fans frustrated by the club’s on-pitch performance and transfer dealings.
Coleman’s Vision for a New Era at Swansea City
Andy Coleman, who assumed the chairman role in May 2023 with a “significant shareholding,” is now set to take a more hands-on role in Swansea’s future direction. Alongside Cravatt, Morris, and Cohen—an associate of Cravatt—Coleman and his partners will contribute a £20 million injection to bolster Swansea’s finances as they continue their Championship campaign.
This fresh capital is expected to provide much-needed financial stability and strengthen the club’s resources, giving fans hope for an uplift in performance. However, the final transfer of ownership remains subject to approval by the Football League (EFL).
A Period of Highs and Lows Under American Ownership
Under Kaplan and Levien’s leadership, Swansea City experienced turbulent times. Despite ambitious promises in 2016 to maintain Premier League status and compete at the highest levels, the club was relegated just two years later and has since faced challenges in the Championship. At present, Kaplan, Levien, Coleman, and American investor Jake Silverstein collectively hold a 74.95% stake in the club, while Morris owns 12.59%. The Swansea Supporters’ Trust retains a 9.42% share, with a protected 5% portion.
Writer’s View
The transition in ownership could provide the fresh start Swansea City needs, especially with Coleman’s commitment to a stable financial injection. While Kaplan and Levien’s departure may mark the end of a challenging chapter, the new leadership has the opportunity to revitalise the club’s fortunes and rebuild trust with the supporters. The next steps will be crucial in determining if Swansea can once again rise in the Championship.
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