Farhad Moshiri’s hopes of a swift deal over the future ownership of Everton have taken a blow as potential buyers, 777 Partners, face a lengthy investigation to ensure Premier League ownership regulations are met.

The American investment company, which already owns shares in clubs all over the world, including Hertha Berlin, Genoa, Vasco da Gama in Brazil, Sevilla, Standard Liege in Belgium, and Red Star in Paris, has been in discussions with the owner of Goodison Park.

Enhanced Premier League regulations, however, grant them the authority to halt transactions in the event that owners are being looked into for specific offenses, such as fraud.

It is also understood that 777 is still the target of ongoing legal proceedings that accuse them of committing such offenses; however, the company vehemently disputes the unsubstantiated claims.

Moreover, since Moshiri is rumored to be seeking to acquire the club for around £500 million, the Premier League demands unequivocal evidence of funding for any takeover.

In addition to financing the construction of the new stadium, there are a number of substantial debts that need to be paid back; the total bill could reach £900 million.

And while 777 are still actively seeking funding from third parties to make their investment in the English club, it is so far understood they have not yet secured the necessary finance.

It means that any agreement between the US-based investment firm and the Premier League may take several months or even into 2024, as they are required by their new regulations to conduct a thorough investigation.

Moshiri is rumored to be hoping for an agreement to sell his 92% share in Everton. There have been rumors that an announcement is about to happen, but considering how long Premier League inquiries take, that now seems incredibly unlikely.

Everton fans protested against the ownership of Moshiri on multiple occasions last season as the club flirted with relegation before only surviving on the final day of the season.