While Sartori and Louis-Dreyfus’ combined wealth may not come to the fore in League One – given the salary cap restrictions – it could become vital as the Wearsiders climb the pyramid.
So using data from the summer of 2020, we’ve estimated where the Black Cats could rank among the country’s richest clubs if the takeover is completed:
1. Manchester City
No surprises here, with Manchester City topping the English rich list. Their Abu Dhabi-based owners are understood to be worth around £23.3bn. Photo: Shaun Botterill
2. Chelsea
Roman Abramovich has turned Chelsea into major contenders on the European stage - thanks to his estimated £10.16bn fortune. Photo: BEN STANSALL
3. Stoke City
Championship side Stoke City are owned by the Coates family - who founded bet365 and are estimated to be worth in the region of £7.17bn. Photo: Gareth Copley
4. Arsenal
Worth an estimated £6.8bn, American businessman Stan Kroenke has backed the Gunners with his cash in recent years. Photo: John McCoy