Ryan Bertrand is fronting a major investment proposal for AFC Wimbledon as Leyton Orient prepare for their next League One fixture. The former Chelsea and Southampton defender is leading a consortium that has tabled an £87m offer for a 34% stake in the Dons, a move that could reshape the financial landscape for one of Orient's divisional rivals. Orient, who sit 12th in League One on 14 points after 11 games, are eight points behind leaders Stockport County.
The investment vehicle, Sloane Street Capital, is funded by British technology expert Omar Mir. The proposal includes an immediate £16m injection, with a further £71m committed over the next five seasons until 2031. Bertrand would take up a role as senior football adviser, with the investment firm overseeing the club's football operations and gaining two seats on the board.
Deal preserves Wimbledon's identity
Crucially, the structure is designed to protect the club's fan-owned heritage. The Dons Trust, which holds 50.01% of voting rights, would retain its majority and maintain veto powers over the club's constitution, colours, and crest. The Trust would also have first refusal to buy back the shares if Sloane Street Capital ever sells.
Bertrand, who retired from playing in 2023, expressed his admiration for Wimbledon's unique story. "AFC Wimbledon's story is unique in English football and it was built by its supporters," he said.
Richie Wellens's side currently sit 12th in the standings with 14 points from 11 games. Their next challenge is an away trip to face 14th-placed Burton Albion on Saturday, October 24. Orient's recent form shows two wins, a draw, and two losses from their last five outings, a sequence that began with a 1-0 win over Stevenage and includes a 2-0 victory over Blackpool where William Forrester and Dane Scarlett scored.
This season, the team's top scorer is J. Kabia with four goals. They have scored 15 goals and conceded 12 in the league so far. AFC Wimbledon, who Orient will face later in the season, are 16th in the table. The proposed investment aims to provide them with greater stability in their second season back in the third tier. For Leyton Orient, the immediate focus remains on securing a positive result at the Pirelli Stadium to climb the table, while monitoring developments elsewhere in the division. The fixture at Burton Albion kicks off at 3pm on Saturday.
Background and full detail: Daily Echo
