Nike look set to become Liverpool's next kit supplier after the club saw a High Court judge rule in their favour this morning. The European champions had been mired in a court battle with their current kit suppliers, New Balance, after Nike made a reported £30 million-a-year bid.
New Balance is entitled to renew its current deal, which concludes in 2020, should it meet match the terms of any other bidder in the race. However, Liverpool maintain the Boston-based company lack the distribution and marketing capabilities of the biggest sportswear brand in the world, even though they were willing to extend their £40 million-a-year deal.
The deal with Liverpool had been a lucrative one for New Balance, which ultimately led them to challenge the club in the London court. But Mr Justice Teare ruled in the Merseyside club's favour.
Responding to the judgement, a spokesperson for Liverpool FC said:
The club is pleased with the judge's decision to rule in favour of the club following the legal dispute with our current kit supplier, New Balance.
We will continue with New Balance for the current season, in combination with preparing next season's Liverpool kits with our new supplier.
