PCP Capital Partners — the investment firm led by Amanda Staveley and her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, who previously spearheaded the Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United — have submitted a formal offer to acquire a 25.1 per cent stake in West Ham.

The share in question is held by the family of the late David Gold, one of the club's former joint-chairmen. Sky News first reported on Thursday that PCP were preparing a bid, and that offer has since been formally lodged.

Kretinsky still in the picture

Current investors at West Ham hold first refusal on any deal and can choose to match PCP's offer. Among those investors is Daniel Kretinsky, who increased his shareholding in the club earlier this year.

Sources close to the situation told Sky News that Kretinsky remains interested in a deal, though the club's ownership structure complicates matters — acquiring the full Gold-owned stake would make him majority owner, a position he does not wish to hold.

Should both parties reach an agreement, the Gold family — not PCP — will release any public statement, out of respect for all other shareholders. Sky Sports News understands PCP will also refrain from public comment while negotiations continue.

Staveley's focus shifts to the Hammers

Since departing Newcastle United, Staveley and PCP have held discussions with several Premier League clubs — including Tottenham Hotspur — but their attention has now firmly settled on West Ham.

A turbulent summer at West Ham

The Hammers are navigating a period of significant upheaval following their relegation from the Premier League. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo initially faced questions about his future before the club confirmed he would remain in charge.

Off the pitch, joint-chairman David Sullivan stepped down after what the club described as