Context:

Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, is set to acquire a 43% stake in the English Premier League club Crystal Palace, previously owned by John Textor. The transaction, valued between $220 million and $260 million, is pending approval from the Premier League and Women's Super League, but no issues are anticipated. Johnson's attempt to purchase Chelsea in 2022 was unsuccessful, making this acquisition significant for his interests in English soccer. Crystal Palace's recent FA Cup victory over Manchester City has qualified them for the Europa League, a position potentially jeopardized by UEFA's multi-club ownership rules due to Textor's involvement with French club Lyon. The transition in ownership aims to strengthen Palace's position in European competitions while expressing gratitude to Textor for his contributions over the past four years.

Dive Deeper:

• Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, has signed a legally binding contract to purchase a 43% stake in Crystal Palace from fellow American John Textor, pending approval from the Premier League and Women's Super League.

• The acquisition is valued between $220 million and $260 million, with no anticipated issues in completing the transaction, signaling Johnson's first successful venture into English soccer after a failed bid for Chelsea in 2022.

• Crystal Palace's qualification for the Europa League, secured by their FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, faces potential challenges due to UEFA's multi-club ownership rules, as Textor is also a shareholder in the French club Lyon.

• The sale of Textor's shares is expected to bolster Crystal Palace's ambitions in European competitions and solidify their standing within the Premier League.

• Crystal Palace expressed gratitude to John Textor for his contributions over the past four years, acknowledging his role in the club's recent successes and wishing him future success.

• The strategic acquisition by Johnson is viewed as a move to enhance the club's competitiveness and leverage in the European football landscape.

• The involvement of high-profile American investors like Johnson highlights the growing interest and investment in English football by international stakeholders.