Sheffield Wednesday Administration Sparks Merger Enquiry with Rivals Sheffield United
On November 27, 2025, Sheffield Wednesday’s administrators confirmed they have received an inquiry regarding a potential merger with local rivals Sheffield United amidst ongoing struggles in the English Championship.
After entering administration in October under former owner Dejphon Chansiri, Sheffield Wednesday is currently for sale with an asking price thought to exceed £30 million ($39.6 million).
Reports from The Daily Mail and Sky Sports indicate that a proposal for a merger with Sheffield United was made, but it was quickly dismissed. However, COH Sports, the American proprietors of Sheffield United, reached out to Wednesday’s administrators, Begbies Traynor, exploring options for purchasing the club. COH Sports did not deny this outreach in a recent statement to fans, which emphasized their goal to bring Sheffield United back to the Premier League.
The notion of a merger has been approached with skepticism by Sky Sports, as it is unlikely to receive backing from the EFL or the newly formed Football Regulator.
Following Sheffield United’s 3-0 victory against Portsmouth, manager Chris Wilder addressed the merger speculation. He stated, “My job is challenging enough with our current situation, and everything will be handled by [CEO] Steve Bettis and the ownership team. My focus remains entirely on the players and improving our position in the standings.”
Sky Sports also reported that COH Sports is not among the five potential buyers that Sheffield Wednesday’s administrators are in discussions with currently, and they expect to provide exclusivity to a buyer by December 5.
Kris Wigfield, a co-administrator, mentioned last week that twelve interested parties have proven £50 million in funding and gained access to the club’s data room. The Telegraph reported that former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has submitted an offer around £20 million for the club.
Sheffield Wednesday, currently at the bottom of the Championship table with minus four points, suffered a 12-point deduction due to their administration status, which was enacted on October 24. The club had experienced delays in player wages for five out of the past seven months under Chansiri’s management.
Both clubs have been approached for comments by PA news agency, and COH Sports has also been contacted by ESPN.
Information from PA was used in this report.
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