A South African consortium have made takeover contact with Everton chairman Bill Kenwright.
Showbiz impresario Kenwright has kept control of Everton during a turbulent time in their history when they battled hard to stay in top four contention despite the need to move ground and bring in more funds.
Billionaire Earl, the man behind the Planet Hollywood empire, took a stake in Everton last season and Philip Green, their mutual friend and fellow tycoon, is also involved in the discussions.
Kenwright has proudly led Everton and would be reluctant to sell - or bring in foreign money - unless he was happy with the cash and was satisfied the new people had his beloved club at heart.