Sunderland-linked investor Robert Platek completes takeover of European club

Platek was a key member behind FPP Sunderland, the trio of New York-based businessmen with ties to Michael Dell who entered prolonged talks with Stewart Donald over a purchase of the club last year.

They eventually sealed a $12million investment deal with the Black Cats, in the form of a loan to Donald’s holding company, Madrox Partners.

But Platek has since retained an investment in the sporting world, and was a key part of the deals which saw MSD UK Holdings – a firm with links to technology tycoon Dell – provide loans to Derby County and Southampton.

And now he and his family have completed the purchase of Danish Superliga side SønderjyskE Fodbold.

A club statement confirming the news said: “The Platek family has just bought SønderjyskE Fodbold, which will thus have the opportunity to consolidate and develop further in the 3F Superliga.

"The organization will be the same, and so will the values ​​and the light blue colors. If the local support continues unabated, there is good reason to see light blue on the future of the South Jutland Superliga project.”

Amanda Platek, the daughter of Robert, said: “On behalf of my family, I am very excited to announce our collaboration with SønderjyskE, which is a club rooted in strong traditions and values.

“I have traveled to Haderslev on several occasions, where I have experienced the loyal group of staff, players and eager fans.

“The incredible support from the entire region has led to the success that SønderjyskE has experienced.

"We look forward to working with the club and maintaining the enduring traditions while starting a new era of growth. We are really excited to start our work with SønderjyskE.”

Neither party has disclosed the financial details involved in the deal.

Platek and his colleagues have long been mooted as potential buyers of the Black Cats, with Donald still looking to sell his majority stake.

Late last week, their FPP Sunderland holding company was dissolved at Companies House.

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