Charles Russell Speechlys has advised COSU, a consortium led by Australian businessman, Justin Rees, on its acquisition of Southend United (the Club), which currently competes in the National League.
The acquisition completed on Friday 19 July 2024 following receipt of approval of the transaction from the National League. This acquisition is the latest in a series of prominent transactions involving English football clubs on which the Charles Russell Speechlys Corporate Sport team led by Keir Gordon has acted.
As well as the acquisition of the Club, an integral part of the wider transaction was the associated real estate element relating to the proposed development of land at Fossetts Farm close to the Club's stadium at Roots Hall. The transaction is another strong example of Charles Russell Speechlys' full service approach as extensive cross-divisional collaboration was required between the Firm's Corporate and Real Estate teams, in particular.
Justin Rees, director of COSU, commented:
"It was terrific to work with Keir, Mark and the Charles Russell Speechlys team on this transaction. We were able to lean on their significant knowledge of the sector which was invaluable, and this experience was particularly useful during some of the more complex and crucial stages of the deal."
Keir Gordon, Corporate Partner, commented:
"We are delighted to have worked with COSU on such an exciting and noteworthy acquisition. The ongoing trend of private investment into English football clubs marks a shift in the football landscape and we are delighted to be advising on deals such as this at such a transformative time."
The Charles Russell Speechlys Corporate team was led by Keir Gordon (Partner) and Tom Smitham (Legal Director), with support from Associates, Grace Hudson and Nia John, Trainee Solicitor, Michael Taylor, and Solicitor Apprentice, Ariella Tanfield.
The Real Estate team was led by Partner, Mark White, with assistance from Associate, Ben Butterworth. Additional support was provided by Claire Fallows, David Haines, Oliver Park, Sadie Pitman and Anna Donnelly (Real Estate) and James Worthington and Joseph Bearman (Construction, Engineering & Projects).
Specialist advice was provided at various times by Roger Elford, Bethan Cunniffe, Cara Whiffin, Rhys Novak and Dan McDonagh.