Former Chelsea and Brazil superstar Alexandre Pato has opened talks regarding a sensational takeover of League Two side Colchester United.
According to The Daily Gazette, Pato has held “provisional talks” regarding a potential investment in the League Two side. Pato was a surprise guest in Essex on Saturday afternoon, where he witnessed the U’s secure a vital 2-1 victory over Fleetwood Town.
The presence of the former Brazil international was far more than a casual visit.
Alexandre Pato of Brazil celebrates his goal during the Copa America (Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Pato was photographed pitchside prior to kick-off accompanied by the club’s long-standing owner and chairman, Cowling, as well as the club’s consultant, Mitchell B. Reiss. He later watched proceedings from the Chairman’s Suite, where Colchester MP Pam Cox was also in attendance.
While the exact nature of Pato’s potential role remains undefined at this early stage, it is understood that behind-the-scenes discussions have taken place regarding the possibility of the Brazilian injecting funds into the League Two outfit.
The discussions come at a pivotal time for Colchester.
Cowling, who has led the club for nearly 20 years, is actively seeking to step away and pass the baton to a new custodian. He has been transparent about his desire to find a “long-term steward” capable of taking the club to the next level, though he has emphasised that he will not sell to just anyone.
A proposed takeover by the US-based Lightwell Sports Group collapsed last summer, but interest in the club remains high. Investors from the UK, Europe, the United States and the Middle East have all reportedly expressed a desire to purchase the U’s.
However, Pato’s emergence as a suitor adds a layer of glamour and intrigue that few could have predicted.
Speaking previously about his exit strategy, Cowling stated: “I’ve said this before, I want my last decision at the club to be my absolute best decision and that’s going to be who I hand it on to. I think it’s going to take a bit of time; we’ve got to make sure we find the right people that deserve to take on this football club.”
Pato enjoyed a glittering career before announcing his retirement from professional football on January 1, 2025. He played for the likes of AC Milan, Chelsea, Villarreal, Tianjin Tianhai and Orlando City.
