There’s talk of Hearts investment in the air - and Tony Bloom’s track record shows he can spend smart.
The Edinburgh Evening News revealed on Monday that the Brighton chairman is in conversations over an investment deal which could revolutionise player recruitment at Tynecastle. He has an interest in introducing his sports analysis company, Starlizard, which would transform how possible new recruits are assessed.
An agreement worth up to £10m is currently being discussed between Bloom and senior Hearts officials. But how has Bloom built his fortune? How much has piled into Brighton financially? And what other clubs has he had success at?
We guide you through his road to the Hearts investment talks in 17 pictures.
9. Another promotion
The end of the 20/21 season saw USG promoted to Belgian First Division A for the first time in 48 years. | BELGA/AFP via Getty Images
10. Records shattered
Under Graham Potter, the Seagulls secure a historic fifth season in the Premier League in May 2021. Their current spell in the top flight exceeds their previous run from 1979 to 1983. The 2021–22 season brought a record-high ninth place finish with a record tally of 51 points. Photo: Bryn Lennon
11. Heading into Europe
Both of Bloom's clubs enjoy European participation. In 2022, Union's runners-up spot qualified them for UEFA Champions League qualifiers, sending them into European football for the first time since 1964–65. They reach the quarter-finals of the Europa League. Photo: Ian MacNicol
12. New records (again)
Brighton finished the 22/23 season with a new record tally of 62 points and a sixth-place finish. It bought them entry into the Europa League group stages and their first-ever foray on the continent. They'd make the last 16. Photo: Mike Hewitt