Sheffield Wednesday’s chaotic summer may be heading for a dramatic twist, with American billionaire John Textor now considering a bid to buy the club.
The 59-year-old recently sold his 43% stake in Crystal Palace for a reported £190 million, freeing him to make fresh investments in English football amid UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules.
Textor’s exit from Selhurst Park followed Palace’s qualification for the Europa League—a development that created a conflict of interest due to his involvement with French side Olympique Lyonnais, who also qualified for Europe. Selling his Palace shares to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has opened the door for a move elsewhere, and Hillsborough could now be in his sights.
The Owls are currently under a transfer embargo, owner Dejphon Chansiri has been criticised for unpaid wages, and several staff were recently forced to seek emergency financial assistance. With unrest growing, a change of ownership may be welcomed by fans desperate for stability.
Competition Mounts to Oust Chansiri
Textor is not the only party interested in rescuing Wednesday. Sheffield-born businessman Adam Shaw has had bids reportedly worth £75 million turned down by Chansiri, who appears reluctant to relinquish control despite mounting pressure. Former Owls owner Milan Mandaric has also re-emerged in the background, attempting to broker a resolution.
However, Textor’s interest could shift the landscape entirely. He is a heavyweight figure in global football ownership, boasting involvement through Eagle Football Holdings in clubs such as Brazil’s Botafogo and Belgium’s Daring Brussels, alongside Lyon and US youth side FC Florida.
His reputation as a digital media and technology mogul—once dubbed “Hollywood’s Virtual Reality Guru” during his time leading FuboTV—adds further intrigue to his ambitions. The Sheffield Star claims Wednesday are among several Championship clubs being considered as part of his next move.
Supporters will be heartened by recent comments from former Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan, who revealed on TalkSport that he had personally recommended Wednesday to Textor as an ideal English club investment. The timing of that conversation and the subsequent developments could suggest the American is actively plotting his next move.
Writer’s View
The prospect of John Textor buying Sheffield Wednesday would represent a seismic shift in the club’s fortunes. After years of decline under Dejphon Chansiri—marked by financial mismanagement and on-field inconsistency—Owls fans have reason to hope that new ownership could restore ambition and credibility.
While Adam Shaw’s interest demonstrates local commitment, Textor’s global experience and deep pockets could transform the club’s long-term trajectory. The key question remains whether Chansiri is finally prepared to let go—and at what price.
