Lander ‘close’ to Saints deal

Chinese investment company Lander Holdings believe they are close to agreeing a deal to buy a controlling stake in Southampton, according to Sky sources.

If the deal goes ahead, Lander would buy an 80 per cent stake and the Premier League club would be valued at more than £200m.

Despite Lander’s confidence, Sky Sports News HQ understands a deal is a long way from being completed.

Lander is a construction and investment company who are run by Chinese businessman Gao Jisheng.

Chinese investors have already bought English clubs such as West Bromwich Albion, Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Birmingham City.