Huw Jenkins Open to Selling Newport County if It Benefits the Club
Huw Jenkins became Newport County's majority shareholder and chairman in January 2024.
Newport County owner Huw Jenkins has expressed his willingness to sell his stake and step away from the club if a new investor seeks a full takeover.
Jenkins is considering his future at the League Two club as he pursues fresh investment to help Newport avoid another challenging season.
The former Swansea City chairman confirmed that he has engaged in discussions with Welsh businessman Nicholas Beddis, founder of financial technology and investment firm AGS Capital, but denied reports suggesting he is close to selling his 52% ownership.
While open to offers, Jenkins emphasized that no potential buyer has yet met the conditions required by both the English Football League (EFL) and the new Independent Football Regulator (IFR).
"I don't like wasting time or talk on nothing. Everyone who wants to get involved in the club has to pass the relevant tests, rather than me or the supporters trust judging people," Jenkins said.
"[But] nobody has come forward with approval from the EFL and the IFR.
"Whether it's Nick Beddis or anybody else, it's important they keep things confidential and do their work behind the scenes if they want to get involved in our club."
Recent Developments and Club Performance
Jenkins completed his takeover of Newport County, which was previously owned by the supporters' trust, in February 2024.
He has previously stated at a fans forum that he will have invested £3 million of his own funds by the end of the last campaign.
During his two years in charge, Newport County has finished 20th and 22nd in League Two, narrowly avoiding relegation last season on the final day. The club is already preparing for its fourth managerial appointment following Christian Fuchs' resignation last month.
Jenkins revealed that Fuchs informed him he had no more to give after the stress of last season's fight to remain in the Football League. Jenkins also acknowledged that new investment would clearly enhance Newport County's chances of avoiding another survival battle.
Jenkins’ Future and Investment Prospects
The 63-year-old owner stated that his future as chairman and owner depends on the preferences of any new investors.
"I'm lucky, I'm open-minded either way," he said when asked whether he would prefer to sell and leave or remain involved under new ownership.
"If it's right for the club and somebody wants a full takeover and myself and the Trust feel that's right, come and do it.
"If people want to become involved with the club, they want me to stay there and they think I can do a reasonable job by helping them, I'd stay.
"So we'll see where it takes us and we'll probably know more over the next few months."
Financial Considerations and Club Assets
Jenkins noted that Newport County could be an attractive and more affordable option for potential investors because the club does not own its stadium or training facilities.
Newport County currently trains at the University of South Wales and pays approximately £1 million annually to the rugby club Dragons, who own Rodney Parade, the club's home ground. This payment is made from a turnover of around £4.5 million.
"Any deal with Newport County would be cheaper than most because of that," Jenkins explained.
"Assets can become liabilities quickly in football and the deal to get involved with Newport County is nowhere near the level of what would be involved in other clubs because of things like the stadium and training ground."
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