Everton's prospective owners 777 Partners insist they have provided the relevant documents to continue the process of taking over the club.

The American investment firm, per the New York Times, are facing delays because they have not provided audited financial documents to a government regulator in the UK.

However, the firm has refuted the claims, issuing a statement to the Liverpool Echo.

The 777 Partners statement read: “We have submitted all relevant documentation to the FCA in line with their requests and indicative timings.

“The regulatory processes in relation to the proposed acquisition of Everton Football Club need to be allowed the proper time and space to run their course in private."

Everton fans will be concerned by this development, especially given 777 Partners' well-publicized issues as owners of Hertha Berlin and Standard Liege.