LIVERPOOL have confirmed that USA basketball star LeBron James has become a minority stakeholder in the club after signing a deal with the club’s owners.
Fenway Sports Group have, through their sports management division, struck a deal to partner the Miami Heat player’s sports-marketing firm, LRMR Branding and Marketing, to become his exclusive worldwide representative.
The extent of James’ interest in the club has not been disclosed. The CEO of LRMR, Maverick Carter, has also become a minority stakeholder.
James, an Olympic gold medal winner with the USA, wants to use the deal to build his portfolio internationally and grow his commercial opportunities.
James said, referring to Liverpool’s 18 league titles: “Eighteen championships. I see myself trying to do the same things they have.”
The 26-year-old has not won an NBA championship, although he won two MVP awards with his former team the Cleveland Cavaliers.
FSG and Liverpool Chairman Tom Werner said in a statement: “We believe this will be a powerful collaboration between FSM and LRMR and LeBron.
“There are very few athletes who can match his global reach, appeal and iconic status. We are very excited that LeBron will be part of the Liverpool FC family. LeBron and Liverpool each has a powerful presence internationally, with particular strength in Asia,” he added.
“But we feel the business opportunities for both working and being identified together in emerging international markets will result in unforeseen opportunities that neither would have been able to realise alone.”