Sheffield United is at risk of a 12-point deduction from the English Football League (EFL) after the company its owners utilized to purchase the club was issued a winding-up order. The EFL is now investigating potential breaches of its rules.
United World, the investment arm of former owner Prince Abdullah Bin Mosaad Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, initiated legal proceedings in the High Court, asserting that it is owed £35 million from the club's sale in 2024. The company claims that the current custodians, American duo Helmy Eltoukhy and Steven Rosen, attempted to acquire the club without payment by transferring their shares to a new entity.
While the American owners dismissed the action as a "publicity stunt," a judge granted the winding-up order. A spokesperson for United World stated that efforts were made to resolve the matter amicably, including a final opportunity for the owners to avert consequences for Sheffield United. The spokesperson added that Eltoukhy and Rosen appear unconcerned about the club's welfare and that United World will continue to pursue the outstanding sums.
An EFL spokesperson confirmed awareness of the High Court's decision regarding COH Sports Bidco Limited. The league will assess the implications according to its regulations and determine if further action is necessary. The EFL is also reviewing other regulatory matters related to changes in the club's ownership structure and broader group developments. The league has stated it will not comment further at this stage of the ongoing issues.