Net Worth of $300 Million! Former Barcelona Star’s Bold Plan to Buy a Chinese-Owned La Liga Club

Martin Braithwaite, the 33-year-old Danish forward who once wore the colors of FC Barcelona, is now making headlines for his off-the-pitch ambitions. Currently playing for Brazilian club Grêmio, Braithwaite is reportedly preparing a bid to purchase Spanish La Liga club Espanyol. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo and other outlets on December 19, Braithwaite is not just dreaming big—he is actively assembling a team of investors to make this bold move a reality.

Espanyol Fans Turn Against Current Ownership

Espanyol’s struggles on the pitch this season have been mirrored by unrest in the stands. On December 19, during their 1-1 draw against Valencia in a rescheduled match from La Liga’s 13th round, fans at the RCDE Stadium voiced their frustration with the club’s owner, Chinese businessman Chen Yansheng.

Chants of “Chinese owner, get out now!” echoed throughout the stadium, reflecting the growing discontent among supporters. Espanyol currently sits in the relegation zone with just 15 points from 17 matches, and fans are losing patience with Chen, who has been largely absent from the club’s affairs for the past two years.

Chen’s tenure as owner has been marked by unfulfilled promises. When he first took over, Chen boldly declared his intention to bring Espanyol into the UEFA Champions League within three years. However, the club’s lack of ambition in the transfer market—spending just €400,000 in the last summer window—has made that goal seem laughable.

Braithwaite’s Ambitious Plan

Amid the turmoil, a surprising potential buyer has emerged: Martin Braithwaite. The former Espanyol and Barcelona striker was spotted in the stands during the draw against Valencia, but he wasn’t there merely as a spectator. Braithwaite is reportedly assembling a legal and financial team to explore the feasibility of purchasing the club.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Braithwaite has already hired a team of reputable lawyers to analyze Espanyol’s financial situation, including its debts and assets. The Danish forward is said to be prepared to contribute a significant amount of his own wealth to the deal while seeking partnerships with other investors to complete the acquisition.

A Footballer-Turned-Business Mogul

Braithwaite’s potential bid to buy Espanyol has raised eyebrows, particularly given his modest footballing career. While he has had stints at clubs like Leganés, Barcelona, and Espanyol, his on-field earnings are estimated to be less than €10 million. So how is Braithwaite in a position to consider purchasing a La Liga club?

The answer lies in his savvy business ventures. In 2017, Braithwaite teamed up with his uncle to invest in the real estate market. Over the years, their portfolio has expanded significantly, with holdings in residential and commercial properties across the United States.

But Braithwaite’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there. He has also invested in the fashion and smart home technology industries, building a diverse business empire that is now valued at approximately $300 million.

The Road to Ownership

Espanyol’s current owner, Chen Yansheng, has reportedly set a steep asking price for the club. According to AS, Chen is unwilling to sell for less than €200 million ($210 million). While this figure is substantial, Braithwaite’s wealth and ability to attract co-investors could make the deal possible.

Braithwaite’s move would not only mark a significant milestone in his career but also signal a shift in Espanyol’s fortunes. With his background in professional football and his proven business acumen, Braithwaite could bring a fresh perspective to the club’s management and rekindle hope among its disillusioned fanbase.

Whether or not Chen Yansheng is willing to sell remains to be seen. However, Braithwaite’s determination and financial clout make him a serious contender in the race to acquire Espanyol.

A New Chapter for Espanyol?

As the situation unfolds, Espanyol fans will be watching closely. For a club that has struggled both on and off the pitch in recent years, Braithwaite’s potential takeover represents a chance for a fresh start. With his $300 million empire and a vision for the future, the Danish forward could transform Espanyol into a competitive force in La Liga once again.

For now, all eyes are on Chen Yansheng’s next move—and whether Martin Braithwaite’s ambitious plan will become a reality.