John Terry spends millions on buying EFL club where his nephew plays

Terry has a personal connection to Colchester, with his 22-year-old nephew Frankie Terry currently on the club's playing roster.

The takeover positions Terry among a growing list of high-profile figures investing in English football's lower divisions, following the likes of Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds at Wrexham and American rapper Snoop Dogg at Swansea City.

Colchester presently sit in mid-table and face Accrington Stanley at the Colchester Community Stadium tomorrow evening.

A source close to the deal told The Sun: "This has been a long time in the making, and JT is really excited for it all to become official."

The insider added that Terry is "a hugely passionate advocate of lower league football, and helping clubs get the support and publicity they deserve."

Terry has already made several visits to the training facilities, getting involved without seeking attention.

"He really believes in the boys and, for their part, the lads at Colchester are absolutely buzzing that he's getting involved," the source said.

Those connected with the club believe the former defender will bring "real stardust" and hope the acquisition will raise Colchester's profile as they pursue promotion.

Terry's playing career at Stamford Bridge was decorated with silverware, including five Premier League championships and the 2012 Champions League triumph.

A banner at Chelsea's home ground honours him with the words "Captain, leader, legend."

The 2012 European final remains memorable for Terry's full-kit celebration despite serving a suspension for the match itself.

Beyond his ownership ambitions, Terry maintains his involvement with Chelsea's youth development programme as an academy coach.

He recently completed a FIFA Diploma in Club Management, adding formal qualifications to his extensive playing experience.

The former defender is expected to continue his coaching duties at Stamford Bridge alongside his new responsibilities at Colchester.

Terry joins an expanding roster of celebrities who have invested in football clubs across the English pyramid and beyond.

Actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney purchased Wrexham in 2020 when the Welsh club were still in non-league, subsequently guiding them to three consecutive promotions while documenting the journey through Disney+ series.

American rapper Snoop Dogg has taken a stake in Swansea, whilst NFL legend Tom Brady has invested in Birmingham City.

Comedy actor Will Ferrell holds a minority shareholding in Leeds United.

Terry's former England colleague David Beckham has also found success in club ownership as co-owner of Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.