Brighton and Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom is the latest figure in football to expand their profile into Australia, purchasing stakes in an A-League team.
The 54-year-old purchased a 19.1 per cent stake in four-time A-League champions Melbourne Victory, with his shares able to be increased "over time".
Bloom's wealth and experience in the footballing sphere was an essential factor that assisted in driving his hometown club Brighton into the Premier League in 2017.
Advertisement
READ MORE: 'Interesting' quirk as cyclone ripple-effect cruels Dolphins
READ MORE: Raygun sells off Olympic shirt for surprise amount on eBay
READ MORE: Ugly twist for teen runner accused of low act against rival
The Englishman, who has a reported net worth of roughly $2.66 billion AUD, also has shares in Belgian Pro League club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
There have also been reports he is linked to make a move on Scottish outfit Hearts.
Brighton owner and chairman Tony Bloom looks on during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace.
Brighton owner and chairman Tony Bloom. Getty
"As a passionate football supporter, I am excited to have the opportunity to become a shareholder in Melbourne Victory, one of the most successful clubs in A-League history," Bloom said in a statement.
"My investment reflects my confidence in the club's vision and leadership, and I see tremendous potential in the club for further growth and success, on and off the pitch.
"The club's leadership know that I am available to them whenever needed to help in driving continued progress and success for Melbourne Victory."
Watch every match of the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, streaming ad free, live and on demand on Stan Sport
A notable entrepreneur, Bloom noted his connection to the club steams from his wife, who is originally from Melbourne.
Bloom was in attendance at the 2024 Christmas Derby between Victory and City.
"My wife is from Australia and, whenever possible, the two of us and our children enjoy spending time there each year," he continued.
"I am especially delighted that we now have a 'home club' in Australia to support."
The agreement sees Victory join Auckland FC and Melbourne City as the only clubs with financial links to Premier League teams.
Victory players celebrate a goal by Nishan Velupillay.
Victory players celebrate a goal by Nishan Velupillay. Getty
Auckland FC are funded by billionaire Bournemouth owner Bill Foley, while cross-town rivals City are tied with Manchester City.
Bloom's connection with Victory comes just a week after the club parted ways with Miami-based investment group 777.
Victory have been a leading powerhouse in the national competition but were heavily impacted financially following the 2022 season.
In the 2023-24 financial year the club recorded $9.87 million in losses.
"We are extremely excited to bring someone of Tony's calibre not only into Melbourne Victory, but of course, into the A-League," Victory chairman John Dovaston said.
"Tony's wealth of experience and expertise in football is well recognised, with Brighton & Hove Albion being widely regarded as one of the best-run teams in the EPL.
"While the investment is independent of Tony's other footballing interests, we are confident that being able to leverage Tony's network at Brighton and beyond will help propel Melbourne Victory forward with a further strengthened capital base."
Both Victory's men's and women's teams will be back in action on Saturday when they face the Western Sydney Wanderers.