LeBron Secures Stake in Liverpool FC

Miami Heat star LeBron James has become a minority stake holder in British side Liverpool Football Club, linking together two of the biggest sports brands in the world.

Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group, who also own baseball's Boston Red Sox, struck a unique and unexpected deal with James's sports-marketing representatives, LRMR Branding & Marketing, to team up and act as “worldwide representatives” for the 26-year-old sportsman. Part of that deal will see James and his manager Maverick Carter became minority stakeholders in the 18-time English league champions.

6ft 8in Ohian James, who earns more than $45.8 million per season from his club and additional endorsements, announced to the press that he was “excited” at the new partnership.

“This is a great opportunity for me,” NBA star James announced.

“18 championships? I see myself trying to do the same things they have.”

FSG bought Liverpool for $488 million last October. The club, despite being one of the most recognisable around the sporting world, have not matched the same level of success that they achieved from the mid 1970’s to the late 1980’s. They are currently managed by club legend Kenny Dalglish, their third coach in under a year.

James attracted a certain level of controversy last year after deciding to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers; a decision that was announced through an hour-long television programme entitled “The Decision”. His former Cavalier teammates were told the news minutes before the show was aired. Regardless of this, he is widely considered to be one of the best basketball players of his generation.

“There are very few athletes who can match his global reach, appeal and iconic status,” said Liverpool chairman Tom Werner.

“We are very excited that LeBron will be part of the Liverpool family.”