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.
13. Raking it in
Brighton's player-trading model becomes the envy of many. Their £122.8 million post-tax gain for the year ending June 30, 2023, came in a season of unprecedented success with the 13th-highest wage bill and the 17th-most expensive squad. Photo: GLYN KIRK
14. Silverware celebration
In May this year, Union won their first Belgian Cup title after 110 years, following a 1–0 win over Royal Antwerp in the final. | BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images
15. How much money has he put in?
Overall, Bloom has since invested a reported £406.5m in interest-free loans into the Seagulls. In 09/10, the club's squad value was €12.13m. Now it's estimated at €555.60m. Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
16. Big fees
Brighton smash their transfer record three times in the summer window just gone. Their eight most expensive signings have all come in the last 13 months. | Brighton FC