New Rivals for Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney & Tom Brady?
League One side Leyton Orient is reportedly close to a £18 million ($23m) takeover, with ambitious plans that could shake up the English Football League. The proposal, led by a US-based consortium, includes launching a new American football franchise in London, potentially competing in the European League of Football (ELF).
This move could see Orient join the likes of Wrexham and Birmingham City, where high-profile investors Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and NFL icon Tom Brady have already made a significant impact.
Leyton Orient's Ambitious Multi-Sport Expansion
According to The Guardian, the takeover talks are in exclusive negotiations, and the consortium includes:
David Gandler – Former Warner Bros executive & fuboTV founder
Kit Hawkins – Tech & sports entrepreneur with stakes in Tiger Woods & Rory McIlroy’s
TMRW Golf League
Neil Leibman – Texas Rangers
Major League Baseball executive
A Game-Changer for London Sports?
If successful, Leyton Orient would be the first UK club with a dedicated team in the European League of Football (ELF)—a 16-team competition that has yet to feature a British franchise.
Additionally, Orient’s new owners are also considering a new stadium and training facility, similar to what Wrexham is developing as they push for Championship promotion.
What’s Next?
While details on the multi-sport expansion remain unclear, the potential takeover would add another major American investment to English football. With Wrexham and Birmingham already gaining international attention, Leyton Orient could be the next club to benefit from global backing.
