Reading FC takeover announced
US businessman Rob Couhig seals the deal to secure the club's future
Last updated 3rd May 2025
Reading football club has a new owner.
The takeover by US businessman and lawyer Rob Couhig has been agreed in principle bringing an end to months of anxiety and closure on one of the darkest periods in the club's 154 year old history.
The news was revealed on Saturday morning just hours before kick off for the last game of teh regular season.
Statement
"Reading Football Club is pleased to announce the sale in principle of the club to Redwood Holdings Limited.
"The takeover includes the Select Car Leasing Stadium and Bearwood Park Training Ground.
"The formal completion of the transaction is subject to final legal technicalities but is fully expected to be completed shortly.
"Based on the agreement between the parties, the EFL has agreed to extend its deadline for the divestment of Mr Dai Yongge’s shareholding until its next Board Meeting on 8 May.
"Redwood Holdings Ltd is a subsidiary of Dogwood Football LLC, which is owned by Rob Couhig and Todd Trosclair of New Orleans, Louisiana."
Under Dai Yongge's eight year ownership the club came close to being wiped out.
1\8 points deducted for financial rule breaches, redundancies, late payment of wages, transfer embargoes, winding up orders and relegation has left the club battered and bruised.
Fan reaction
Elm Park Royals Fan site
Sell Before We Dai campaign group