Former Chelsea forward Alexandre Pato has entered the world of EFL football ownership, as he is set to become the majority shareholder of Northampton Town.
Pato is part of a consortium that has officially agreed a deal to buy a controlling stake in the League Two side.
The deal involves Pato and UK/Brazilian investment group Sports Alpha Capital, and it has been passed by the Independent Football Regulator.
Northampton confirmed on Friday that after approval from the IFR and the EFL, an agreement has been reached. Final details are being completed before the takeover process is expected to be finalised next week.
Alexandre Pato prior to the Sky Bet League Two 2026/27 match between Northampton Town and Newport County. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
In a statement, Northampton’s chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “As we always said, we will keep supporters updated as we progress and we are pleased that we have finalised agreements and now move to closing.
“Football club transactions always have many moving parts and often take a little longer than you would hope, but we are thrilled to be moving forward.”
Thomas continued: “We all saw the excitement and enthusiasm from both the supporters and Sports Alpha themselves when Pato and others from the group were at the Newport game, and we think that excitement will just build.”
Joao Xavier, a founding partner of Sports Alpha Capital, also said: “We are very happy to have reached formal agreements.
”Obviously obtaining IFR and EFL approvals was a big step, but this is also a very important milestone, and we look forward to closing next week.”
Alexandre Pato poses for photographs with young fans prior to the Sky Bet League Two 2026/27 match between Northampton Town and Newport County. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
And speaking on behalf of the investors, Hugh Strange added: “All the investors are very excited about the opportunity to build on the excellent foundations in place to take the club forward and are looking forward to enjoying more days like the Newport game together with the supporters.”
Pato and the rest of the investment group attended a Northampton match on September 5, watching the Cobblers beat Newport County 1-0 thanks to a late winner.
