Spanish businessman Erik Alonso – who describes himself as a “ world boxing champion ” – is about to complete the takeover of Derby County, on the championship side.
Alonso, who owns No Limits Sports Limited, reached advanced negotiations with the Rams last month, but there was a slight hitch as both sides had to wait for the expiration of the exclusivity clause of Bin Zayed International.
Instagram / @eralwbd
Spanish businessman Erik Alonso set to take over County Derby
Derby have spent the past two seasons burdened with financial constraints, but it is understood that their potential new owner has sufficient funds for the transaction and would not require any loans.
Alonso has amassed his personal wealth through his family and several successful businesses such as owning vineyards and several football companies in marketing and consulting.
Speaking to talkSPORT on Thursday morning, Alonso insisted he wanted to bring the glory days back to Pride Park.
“The history of the club speaks for itself,” he told White and Jordan. “So I can’t say anything else.
“Derby is a sleeping giant; we hope we can bring Derby back to the old days. Normally what I say is, “Don’t trust my words, but let me work”.
“I will prove my worth with my daily work, so they will see what we do.”
Alonso describes himself as: “A charismatic, proactive, dedicated professional with great interpersonal skills, deep knowledge of the professional sports industry and a passion for winning.”
The charismatic businessman from Spain also has a rather personal connection to football, namely his famous relative Xabi.
The former Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid midfielder hung up his boots in 2017, but his cousin Erik is keen to continue the family dynasty.
“His father is my father’s family,” he added.
“I’m not exactly [sure of the link] because we don’t have a strong relationship, but yes we are family.
Boxrec
He also qualifies as a “world boxing champion” and has a Boxrec page. He fought five times professionally, winning it all by knockout.
On his LinkedIn page, Alonso describes himself as: “A charismatic, proactive, dedicated professional with great interpersonal skills, in-depth knowledge of the professional sports industry and a passion for winning.”
He also calls himself a “ world boxing champion ” and has a Boxrec page, which details how his five professional victories came about by knockout.
Wayne Rooney’s men are 18th in the championship, eight points above the relegation zone, and host leaders Norwich on Saturday.
