Daniel Kretinsky becomes largest shareholder of West Ham United

Czech businessman Daniel Kretinsky has reached a deal to acquire a 46% stake in West Ham United. The agreement effectively makes Kretinsky the club's largest shareholder and concludes a process that saw him secure shares previously held by the Gold family. This transaction triggers existing pre-emption rights, which provides an obstacle to the ownership ambitions of former Newcastle director Amanda Staveley. Despite his resignation as chairman in June, David Sullivan will see his own stake rise to 40% as part of the restructuring. Tripp Smith also increases his stake to 11% under the terms of the agreement. The independent regulator continues its active inquiry into the suitability of David Sullivan, though this latest ownership shift is not expected to trigger a further examination.

• 9:58 PMYahoo Sports — Kretinsky agrees to become largest West Ham shareholder
• 9:52 PMBBC Sport — Kretinsky agrees to become largest West Ham shareholder