Liverpool and AC Milan are amongst those with celebrity shareholders…
Hollywood actor Russell Crowe recently hinted on Twitter that he may make an offer to buy a stake in Championship club Leeds United. The New Zealander has been a fan of the of the club since childhood.
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Here are five other celebrities who put some money in to football clubs…
5) Elton John, Watford
The popstar bought the club in 1976, becoming its chairman in doing so. The stint as owner was very successful, with the team becoming FA Cup and top flight runners up in 1984 and 1983. Even when he sold the side in 1987 Elton has stayed as lifelong president, and has a stand named after him at Vicarage Rd.
4) Delia Smith, Norwich City
Celebrity chef Smith part owns Championship side Norwich City, and was even in charge of catering at one point. She became infamous for her half time talk to fans when the Canaries were fighting relegation from the Premier League. It wasn’t enough to save them in the end.
3) Silvio Berlusconi, AC Milan
He may be better known for his bunga bunga parties, but the former Prime Minister also owns one of its biggest football clubs. The controversial club saved the side from bankruptcy when he bought it in 1986 by investing huge amounts of money. He appointed Arrigo Sacchi as manager and they went on to create one of the best teams ever. More recently he has not been having as much success with the Rossoneri as they have slipped down Serie A.
2) Louis Tomlinson, Doncaster Rovers
The One Direction member attempted to buy the team in 2014, but failed in doing so. Despite this the popstar has continued to be involved with the club, playing in charity matches and helping to raise money.
1) LeBron James, Liverpool
It wasn’t entirely of his own volition but the basketball ace does have a minority share in the Reds. He has a marketing deal with Fenway Sports Group, who own the Merseyside club and gave him a stake in the contract. The Cleveland player has since attended matches and seems to follow the scores, judging by his twitter account.