SAC 'very excited' by Cobblers opportunity ahead of completing investment deal

Cobblers are now expected to complete their takeover by SAC next week, with an agreement having been reached following the recent Independent Football Regulator and EFL approvals. The final details are now being sorted, and the change of ownership should be formally confirmed in the coming days.

Joao Xavier, founding partner at Sports Alpha Capital, said: “We are very happy to have reached formal agreements. Obviously obtaining IFR and EFL approvals was a big step, but this is also a very important milestone, and we look forward to closing next week."

SAC was founded by Xavier, a Brazilian lawyer, as well as economist Pedro Piquet and British businessman Tim Chamberlain. Former Brazil, AC Milan and Chelsea striker Alexandre Pato is listed as one of several investors on their website.

The IFR specifically identified Atanas Bostandjiev, who is the the majority owner of Bulgaria's Levski Sofia, and tech entrepreneurs Hugh Strange and Adam Wible as the prospective owners that have been assessed and approved.

On behalf of the investors, Strange said: “All the investors are very excited about the opportunity to build on the excellent foundations in place to take the club forward and are looking forward to enjoying more days like the Newport game together with the supporters.”