Barcelona, Spain – Alan Pace, the current owner of Premier League side Burnley and head of ALK Capital, is reportedly on the verge of becoming the new majority owner of La Liga club Espanyol.
An offer believed to be around €180 million has been made, with reports from Mundo Deportivo indicating the deal is close to completion.
This move would mark a significant expansion of ALK Capital’s multi-club model, adding a prominent Spanish club to their portfolio alongside Burnley.
Espanyol, currently owned by the Chinese conglomerate Rastar Group and its president Chen Yansheng, has been the subject of takeover talks for several months.
Sources suggest that negotiations are advanced, and Pace’s offer has gained traction.
The potential takeover is expected to be a key topic at Espanyol’s upcoming shareholders’ meeting, scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025.
Chen Yansheng is reportedly planning to inject €38 million into the club through a capital increase before the sale is finalized.
Alan Pace, a seasoned financial professional with a background on Wall Street, acquired an 84% controlling stake in Burnley in December 2020.
Under his ownership, Burnley has experienced two relegations from the Premier League but has also secured immediate promotions back to the top flight on both occasions.
For Espanyol, a change in ownership could herald a new era. The Catalan club has endured a period of financial instability and inconsistent performance under the Rastar Group.
Pace’s reported ambition is to elevate Espanyol to become a consistent contender for European places, aiming to compete with the best clubs in La Liga outside of the traditional top three.
The acquisition of Espanyol would allow ALK Capital to tap into the Spanish football market, which offers advantageous registration rules and established pathways for South American talent.
This strategic move could reshape Espanyol’s financial landscape and on-field ambitions, potentially leading to significant investment in the club.
