Antwerp and Overmars await takeover as club remains in limbo

Uncertainty at Royal Antwerp FC continues as no definitive agreement was reached on Thursday regarding the club’s takeover, leaving the Great Old in limbo just three weeks before the season starts, while the side still awaits a new coach and player signings.

The takeover became essential after Paul Gheysens failed to repay a million‑dollar debt to the investment fund Fasanara in time, causing him to lose control of the club but granting extra time to locate a new owner.

A temporary partnership of local investors, including KBC and well‑known figures such as Wouter Vandenhaute and Toby Alderweireld, has been prepared to assume control of the club.

In recent days it was expected that the deal would finally be sealed. The original deadline on Tuesday was missed, leading to another postponement, and Thursday negotiations continued late into the evening without producing a definitive agreement.

Sources close to the process say the remaining hurdles involve technical and legal details. The discussions are said to be moving in the right direction, keeping hope alive that the takeover will be completed shortly.

For Antwerp, the delay means the sporting policy remains largely blocked. Until the takeover is officially finalised, the club cannot appoint a new trainer or secure player signings ahead of the competition’s start.

Time is running out for Voor Antwerp, as the season approaches and the need for a clear ownership structure becomes ever more urgent.