Everton have secured an exclusivity deal with potential new owners, The Friedkin Group.

Several suitors recently emerged to take over Farhad Moshiri’s 94.1% share after previous forerunners, 777 Partners, failed to meet the May 31 deadline. The Miami-based investors spent more than eight months trying to take control at Goodison Park but failed to secure regulatory approval.

In their absence, the Friedkin Group has emerged from a crowded field of candidates interested in taking over the Blues. On Friday, Everton announced that the group, led by Texan billionaire Dan Friedkin, is conducting due diligence with a view to a full takeover.

“Blue Heaven Holdings has received significant interest from several highly respected parties interested in investing in the club,” read a club statement. “The club can confirm today (21 June) that a period of exclusivity has been granted to the Friedkin Group to progress discussions to acquire a majority shareholding in Everton. All parties will now work together to conclude this process. In the meantime, the club will continue to operate as normal.”

Friedkin already holds majority ownership of two European clubs: Serie A giants Roma and French fourth-tier outfit AS Cannes.

Meanwhile, Everton are expected to finalize a deal to extend Leeds United winger Jack Harrison’s loan spell for another season shortly.