Non-league rivals set to merge with ‘budget Ryan Reynolds’ becoming chairman following crypto billionaire investment

TWO non-league rivals have announced they plan to merge - in a bid to surge up the football pyramid.

Bedford Town and Real Bedford are joining forces in a move designed to "transform" their fortunes.

Real are owned by Bitcoin podcaster Peter McCormack, who has previously indicated he wants to see his team in the Premier League.

A statement from the two clubs read: "The Directors of Real Bedford FC and Bedford Town FC are excited to announce that discussions are in progress regarding a historic merger that has the potential to transform football in Bedford.

"We are engaged in detailed negotiations to unify the two clubs into a single entity.

"There is considerable work to be done, including navigating necessary governance processes and protocols, details of which will be shared in due course.

"As part of the proposed agreement, Peter McCormack would assume the role of Chairman of the newly merged club.

"Jon Taylor and Ben Banks will continue as Non-Executive Directors to provide guidance during the transition and drive the club’s future ambitions."

McCormack, who has dubbed himself a "budget Ryan Reynolds", took over the club in 2022.

Then a 10th-tier club called Bedford FC, they now play in the eighth tier after an initial rebrand.

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McCormack made his fortune in virtual currency and has previously spoken about giving Bedford a league team.

The town sits in between Northampton, Luton and Cambridge, who all have EFL clubs.

Bedford has a population of almost 130,000 - and local businessman McCormack believes that is more than enough to support a major side.

McCormack said: "As a proud Bedfordian, nothing would make me happier than seeing our town represented at the highest levels in men’s and women’s football.

"We’ve made amazing progress with Real Bedford, but this merger unlocks the potential to achieve something truly special in the town.

"I understand that fans of Bedford Town may feel some apprehension, but this only works if we come together to make it a success.

"By combining the strengths of both clubs, we’re building a united front that can deliver league football to Bedford.

"I’m excited about what lies ahead and look forward to working with everyone to achieve our shared ambitions."

Bedford Town are currently in the seventh tier.

Manager Lee Bircham admits the merger is necessary - because the club's current financial position is not sustainable.

Bircham admitted: "We can't compete at this level next year.

"The owners have done the right thing.

"With the investment that Pete [McCormack] has got, Bedford could have a Football League club in five years."