Liverpool are in the final stages of negotiating a significant deal with Adidas to become their new kit suppliers, replacing Nike. Despite the relatively smaller sum, Liverpool was drawn to Nike’s marketing and distribution reputation. The deal also includes royalty payments on sales of replica teamwear, pushing the fee beyond £50m annually. Adidas won the contract over Nike and Puma after a tender process.
This marks a reunion between Liverpool and the German company, following a 13-year gap since Adidas last supplied their kit. It is anticipated that the new agreement will surpass the current deal with Nike. Adidas is making a strong push in the wake of losing their long-standing contract with the German national team to Nike. The next battlefield for sportswear giants will be the French national team contract, with the tender process currently in progress.
Nike faced resistance from New Balance in their bid to supply Liverpool, leading to a legal dispute. The High Court ruled in favor of Nike, citing the company’s key status and the inability of New Balance to match the terms of the proposed deal.