Saudi boxing promoter Turki Alalshikh in talks with Derby over investment

Turki Alalshikh has held talks with Derby County over an investment deal, according to reports.

John Percy, Midlands football reporter for the Telegraph, broke the news on Monday afternoon that the Saudi billionaire had spoken to Derby owner David Clowes over making a financial contribution to the club.

Alalshikh is a prominent Saudi government official who is best known worldwide for his standing within boxing, where he is the co-founder of Zuffa Boxing.

Boxing isn't Alalshihk's first venture into sports, however.

The 44-year-old was previously Honorary President of Saudi Arabian professional football club Al-Taawoun, as well as owning both Egyptian side Pyramids FC and Spanish outfit Almeria.

The latter achieved promotion to La Liga under Alalshikh's ownership before he sold to club to a group of investors from Saudi Arabia, led by SMC Group.

Alalshikh has been linked to English football clubs in the past and reports in 2025 linked him to a takeover bid at Bristol City.

With Clowes looking for financial help with on eye on achieving a Premier League return, the Telegraph understand that the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) are undertaking the necessary checks before potentially giving Clowes the green light and push ahead with a deal.

Established in July of last year, this deal is set to be one of the IFR's biggest tests since they were brought in to help protect and promote the sustainability of English football.

Clowes has held talks with a number of interested investment groups ever since saving the Rams from liquidation all the way back in 2022.

Derby finished eighth in the Championship under John Eustace last season are will be keen to make a successful playoff push when the 2026/27 campaign rolls around.