Minnesota Businessman In Talks To Purchase NWSL Club FC K.C.; No Plans To Move Team

Minnesota-based North Central Equity CEO Elam Baer yesterday said he is in "early-stage discussions" to purchase NWSL club FC K.C., according to Sam McDowell of the K.C. STAR. Baer said that he "hoped a resolution would be reached by the end of the year." Baer added he has “no intention of moving the team" should the sale be approved. The club is "currently owned by Chris Likens and his two sons, Greg Likens and Brad Likens, along with Brian Budzinski." The FC K.C. owners are "currently under investigation by the NWSL after a series of sexually suggestive emails was released to media earlier this year." Baer said that he is in negotiations to "purchase at least a majority stake in the team." NWSL Dir of Communications Patrick Donnelly said if ownership changes are made, the league would be “very involved” in the process. He added that any new ownership groups "would have to be approved by the 10-team league, which is in its fourth year" (K.C. STAR, 10/18).