Former Premier League striker Victor Anichebe appears to be wasting no time in preparing for a potential takeover of Gateshead FC, with reports suggesting he has already started lining up transfers before officially acquiring the club.
The ex-Everton and Sunderland forward, who is fronting a Nigerian consortium in an attempt to buy the fifth-tier club, has been spotted at the Gateshead International Stadium in recent weeks. According to Chronicle Live, he was present after their recent 3-1 defeat to Braintree Town, further fuelling speculation that he is getting involved in club affairs before a deal is finalised.
Tapping Up Players? Yeovil Boss Raises Concerns
Adding to the intrigue, Yeovil Town manager Mark Cooper has publicly criticised an attempt to sign his striker, Frank Nouble, in what he described as an unauthorised approach on behalf of Gateshead.
“I think this person did a deal with Frank’s agent, which obviously unsettled Frank,” Cooper said. “It would do because he had a good deal going to Gateshead. And then, it went quiet. We then found out that there was no deal.
“The person doing the deal with Frank’s agent and Frank had no jurisdiction to do the deal, because as far as I’m aware he doesn’t yet own Gateshead. Really disappointing from Gateshead’s side of it, and I feel sorry for Frank really. But he wanted to go. He made it clear he wanted to go and play for Gateshead, we granted that wish, but it’s fallen through so we’ll wait to see what happens.”
Cooper’s comments imply that Anichebe or someone associated with him may have been attempting to arrange transfers under the assumption that the takeover would go through. However, without official ownership, these negotiations appear to have collapsed, leaving Nouble in limbo.
Gateshead’s Recent Rise Makes Them an Attractive Prospect
Gateshead FC have been on an upward trajectory since their fan-led takeover in 2019, following a forced relegation from the National League due to financial mismanagement under previous owners. The club has since enjoyed success, returning to the fifth tier in 2022 after winning the National League North title under former boss Mike Williamson.
They have also made back-to-back appearances at Wembley in the FA Trophy final, suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Halifax Town in 2023 before claiming redemption in 2024 with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Solihull Moors. However, their playoff hopes were dashed last season due to a stadium leasing issue, adding another twist to their eventful recent history.
Writer’s View
While Anichebe’s enthusiasm for the Gateshead project is clear, there’s a fine line between being proactive and overstepping boundaries. Trying to secure transfers before completing a takeover is a risky move, and Cooper’s remarks suggest that it has already led to unnecessary disruption. If the deal goes through, Anichebe will need to tread carefully to maintain relationships within the footballing community.
