Burnley owners expand multi-club network with purchase of Espanyol

Burnley’s ownership group ALK Capital has expanded its European football footprint after completing the purchase of a majority stake in Spanish club RCD Espanyol.

The deal was finalised by ALK’s sports investment arm, Velocity Sports Partners (VSP), marking the end of Espanyol’s ownership under the Chinese conglomerate Rastar Group.

The takeover follows months of negotiations after reports in June revealed that ALK were exploring opportunities to acquire the La Liga club.

Espanyol confirmed the sale in a statement earlier today. The transaction reportedly included a €130 million package split between cash and VSP shares.

The Barcelona-based side, who finished 14th in La Liga last season after securing promotion the previous year, will now become part of ALK’s growing network of football clubs.

VSP described the partnership as one that ‘builds on Espanyol’s rich legacy, loyal fanbase, and deep connection to the local community’.

Alan Pace, Burnley’s chairman and managing partner of ALK Capital, said the model is focused on responsible management rather than direct ownership.

Espanyol’s new investors say they plan to focus on strengthening the club’s infrastructure and youth development, while maintaining transparency and engagement with supporters.

ALK Capital completed the £170 million takeover of Burnley in December 2020. They helped the Clarets return to the Premier League under Vincent Kompany after a brief relegation spell.

The group has since explored multi-club partnerships to expand its football operations, including a previous interest in Belgian club Kortrijk.

Espanyol is the latest European club to join an English-owned multi-club network. The deal highlights a growing trend among Premier League ownership groups to establish international partnerships.