Louis Tomlinson 'almost there' as One Direction singer looks to complete Doncaster takeover
Image rights negotiations have slowed the deal
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Doncaster's former chairman John Ryan is hopeful his joint takeover of the club with One Direction star Louis Tomlinson will be completed this week.
Rovers have twice been forced to postpone official announcements of the takeover due to complex negotiations over Tomlinson's image rights.
But Ryan, who ended his 15-year association with the South Yorkshire club in November, told Press Association Sport that protracted talks between the club and Tomlinson's legal team could be drawing to a conclusion.
"I can't confirm anything just yet," he said. "I think it's nearly there. We're still waiting to hear if it has been completed, but I anticipate it will be very soon.
"We're very hopeful it will be done this week."
The club and Tomlinson had been hoping to make a formal announcement last Wednesday after a press conference planned for the previous Friday at Wembley had been postponed.
Tomlinson's management team own his image rights and are entitled to money made from use of the singer's name or image.
They believe that interest in the club will increase if Tomlinson's joint takeover goes ahead and it is understood they want a share of any extra revenue made through merchandise and extra ticket sales.
Doncaster-born Tomlinson, 22, is currently on a world tour with One Direction, which has dates in Denmark and France scheduled for this week.
The club confirmed at the end of last month that they were in talks with Tomlinson's representatives about a possible takeover.
Tomlinson is a lifelong fan of the club, relegated to Sky Bet League One last season, and is also registered as a player for Rovers, appearing for the club's reserve team in February.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments