Mason Caton-Brown’s Phoenix Bid consortium has been a dealt a significant boost to its hopes of taking on a new Salford team.
The Phoenix Bid is one of three parties to have registered interest in restoring professional rugby league in Salford in 2026, after the Red Devils were officially wound up and liquidated last week.
Formal submissions must be made to the RFL today and a decision is expected to be made on Wednesday December 17, with the hope being that the new Salford club can start the season a month later on January 16 against Oldham.
Caton-Brown’s consortium includes Malcolm Crompton, former chairman of the Forever Reds Supporters Trust, local business man Paul Hancock, and tech entrepreneur Ashley Washington. And, the group have agreements in principle with Salford City Council for use of the CorpAcq Stadium and a kit supplier, with a recruitment plan in place, too.
However, the bid has been boosted by striking a new strategic partnership with Cas Paton, founder and CEO of OnBuy.com.
The online marketplace brand will become the Salford club’s front of shirt sponsor if the bid is successful, and Paton, who grew up in Urmston, will step on board as a partner, with a six-figure investment being promised over a three-year period.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Cas to the consortium,” said Caton-Brown said. “His belief in transparency, fairness and growth mirrors everything we stand for.
“This partnership is about more than funding, it’s about building a modern, community-led club with strong foundations.”
On his involvement, Paton added: “Salford is a city built on determination and heart. The Phoenix Bid represents exactly the kind of spirit and openness I believe in. I’m excited to play a role in helping the club rise again, stronger and more sustainable for the future.”
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