Sports Alpha Capital has completed a majority takeover of Northampton Town, securing a 70% shareholding in the club. The investment group, which includes former Brazil and Chelsea forward Alexandre Pato, received approval from the Independent Football Regulator and the English Football League at the start of September.
The existing owners, David Bower, Nigel Le Quesne and Kelvin Thomas, will collectively retain a 30% stake. Kelvin Thomas will step down as chairman after more than a decade but remains a shareholder and director. SAC representatives Joao Xavier and Tim Chamberlain will serve as co-chairmen of the board, with Pato also joining as a director. Chief executive James Whiting and supporters’ representative Tom Cliffe will stay on the board.
The club announced the deal will leave Northampton Town debt-free, a significant step after reporting a pre-tax loss of just under £3 million in April. The new co-chairmen said they have ambitious plans for the club but stressed a commitment to sustainability and its community ties. They described themselves as proud to become custodians of a club with a rich history and passionate supporter base.
The takeover arrives at a critical time on the pitch. Northampton Town currently sit 22nd in League Two with six points from seven games, just two points above the relegation places. Their recent form shows five consecutive defeats, a run the new ownership will be keen to address. The club's average attendance this season is according to official data.
Also, the club's wage bill for the last financial year was reported to be £4.2 million, a figure the new ownership will now manage as part of their commitment to financial sustainability. The 37-year-old Pato, who retired from playing last year after spells with AC Milan, Chelsea and Corinthians, is an investor and board member at SAC. He and fellow investors attended the club's 1-0 win over Newport County earlier this month, where they met manager Stuart Hogg and the players. His involvement brings a high-profile football name to the boardroom.
The immediate focus turns to the next fixture, a home match against Exeter City on 19 December. Fans can view the full schedule on the club's fixtures page.
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