Financial deadline looms for Antwerp as owner faces €10m repayment

Antwerp faces a decisive financial crossroads as owner Paul Gheysens must repay €10 million to creditor Fasanara by 30 June, a deadline that could determine the club’s ownership structure and its ability to resolve lingering cash‑flow problems. While the team remains without a head coach and recent key players have left on free transfers, the club has adopted a cautious approach in the current transfer window.

Two years ago, creditor Fasanara provided a €35 million loan to Antwerp when the club faced cash‑flow difficulties. The loan agreement used the club itself as collateral.

Owner Paul Gheysens must return €10 million of that loan by 30 June through his company Goala. Failure to meet the deadline could jeopardise control of the club and trigger renewed cash‑flow problems.

Gheysens has indicated he will no longer inject private capital without a clear plan. His real‑estate venture Ghelamco is also experiencing financial strain.

Potential remedies include securing a new loan, selling a portion of his shares, or disposing of the club entirely. Discussions with investment firm Carlyle have taken place, but the stringent conditions make an immediate deal uncertain.

A British investment group and a Belgian consortium led by Jacques Vandermeiren, former CEO of the Port of Antwerp‑Bruges and current board member of Antwerp, have expressed interest in acquiring the club.

The club’s chief executive Sven Jaecques is approaching the end of his contract, while sporting director Marc Overmars operates with limited clarity on the club’s direction. This lack of decisive leadership hampers Antwerp’s ability to move forward.

The coming days will therefore decide whether The Great Old can stabilise its finances and chart a clear sporting path. Stakeholders are watching closely as the deadline approaches.