Ex-Brazil forward Pato joins Northampton board after takeover
Former Brazilian footballer Alexandre Pato has joined the board of English League Two club Northampton Town following a successful takeover by a consortium. The deal leaves the club debt-free and introduces new leadership to the board.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing trend of international athletes and investment firms acquiring lower-tier professional football clubs.
Former Brazil and AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato has joined the board of Northampton Town after a consortium including the retired footballer completed its takeover of the English League Two club.
According to the BBC, Sports Alpha Capital (SAC), which includes Pato among its investors, has completed the takeover after its proposed deal was approved by the Independent Football Regulator and English Football League earlier this month.
SAC will take a 70% shareholding in Northampton Town Ventures Limited, the company that owns the majority of shares in the club, while existing owners David Bower, Nigel Le Quesne and Kelvin Thomas will collectively retain 30%.
Pato is set to become a director on the Northampton board alongside SAC representatives Joao Xavier and Tim Chamberlain, who will serve as co-chairmen.
The takeover will also leave Northampton debt-free after the club reported a pre-tax loss of just under £3m in April 2026.
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