Sheffield United’s owners under EFL spotlight over £35m dispute
Sheffield United’s ownership group is under formal investigation by the English Football League following allegations that COH Sports, the club’s American owners, restructured the Blades’ shares to avoid paying £35m owed to Prince Abdullah. The EFL confirmed it has written to United’s board to assess compliance with regulations after Abdullah’s investment vehicle, United World, filed a winding-up petition in the High Court this week.
What triggered the EFL probe into Sheffield United?
The dispute centers on a December 2024 deal where COH Sports agreed to buy Sheffield United from Prince Abdullah for about £100m. COH Sports paid an initial £30m instalment shortly after but allegedly missed two further payments due in 2026. Abdullah’s legal team claims the remaining £35m remains unpaid and has accused COH Sports of transferring shares from the original buyer entity, COH Sports Bidco Limited (CSBL), to a new Delaware-based parent company, 1919 Partners LLC. On 22 June, United’s board confirmed 1919 Partners LLC “is the parent company of Sheffield United FC” and “sits at the centre of the ownership structure.”
Why does this matter for the Blades and the EFL?
Abdullah’s representatives argue the share restructuring was designed to dodge the £35m debt, giving United an unfair competitive edge over Championship rivals. Their letter to the EFL states: “In circumstances where the ultimate owners … revealed themselves as people who would engineer a means of transferring the Blades shares out of CSBL to avoid paying in full … it is unclear how the EFL could possibly remain satisfied that these individuals could be fit and proper.” The EFL has requested observations from all parties but declined further comment while the process continues.
What happens next for Sheffield United’s ownership?
Talks between Abdullah and COH Sports have dragged on for months. Abdullah was offered the chance to convert the £35m debt into equity in the club, but no resolution has been reached. A spokesperson for 1919 Partners LLC insisted the matter “has no impact on the day-to-day operations or financial stability of Sheffield United,” adding the restructuring aimed to create “a stronger platform” for the club ahead of the new season. The EFL’s probe will determine whether United’s owners remain compliant with its regulations amid the ongoing payment dispute and share transfer concerns.
