Turki Al-Sheikh, once linked with a potential stake in Wrexham, is now closing in on a takeover of Bristol City.
The Saudi adviser, who has shown interest in English clubs before, is reported to be preparing a formal bid for the Championship side.
Wrexham Investment Links Fade
Wrexham’s rise under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has attracted global interest, with billionaire backers regularly connected to the Hollywood-owned club. In 2024, the Allyn family joined as investors after previously exploring opportunities at Liverpool, adding further financial muscle to the ambitious North Wales outfit.
Earlier this year, speculation suggested Al-Sheikh could follow suit amid a £350m valuation of Wrexham. However, reports now indicate he is instead turning his attention to Bristol City, currently managed by Liam Manning. According to journalist Alan Nixon, a formal proposal is being prepared, with the Saudi aiming to secure a base in the city from which to operate during spells in England.
That development appears to rule out any short-term involvement with Wrexham, though the club continue to field approaches from high-net-worth individuals keen to join the ownership group.
“Then I think what happens is that Rob and Ryan go into their Rolodex and call up one of the dozens and dozens of people who’ve got in touch within the last four years and been like ‘hi I’m a multi, multi, multi billionaire, I want to join in on this with you’,” explained club chief Humphrey Ker earlier this year.
Ker went on to note that Reynolds and McElhenney are not seeking to step back, but view fresh investment as essential to bridging the financial gap between the Championship and the Premier League.
Championship Ambition
For Wrexham, the focus remains firmly on the pitch after a mixed start to the 2025/26 campaign. The Dragons’ rapid progression through the leagues has been underpinned by strong commercial growth and a high-profile documentary series, leaving them well-placed to attract further outside backing.
Bristol City, meanwhile, have been an established Championship presence but have long harboured top-flight ambitions. Fresh investment from Al-Sheikh could provide the financial firepower needed to mount a serious promotion push, reshaping the landscape at Ashton Gate.
Writer’s View
Al-Sheikh’s move towards Bristol City underlines just how attractive the Championship has become to overseas investors, with clubs viewed as undervalued gateways to the Premier League. While Wrexham may miss out on this particular suitor, their global profile ensures further options will arise.
For City, this could be a pivotal moment in their modern history, potentially giving Manning the resources to build a squad capable of finally breaking into the top flight.
