Jeff Bezos is reportedly showing a 'legitimate' interest in becoming the new owner of the Boston Celtics.

The Amazon tycoon, who's said to be worth around $196billion, is the second-richest person in the world and has been linked with purchasing sports teams in the past.

The Celtics are the latest team to be linked to Bezos after Wyc Grousbeck placed the NBA champions up for sale just weeks after they won their 18th championship.

Grousbeck and his investment group spent $360million back in 2002 to buy the Celtics from Don Gaston.

And they look certain to make a huge return on their investment now with the NBA reportedly wanting the Celtics to sell for $6bn.

The sale is expected to happen later this year or in early 2025 with a number of suitors expected to enter the bidding phase.

According to Bill Simmons of The Ringer, Bezos is one such person interested in buying the NBA franchise.

"The league wants $6 billion for the team," Simmons said.

"They don't own the arena, it's a crazy price but they're probably going to get it.

"They want the $6 billion because they want expansion teams in Seattle and Las Vegas, and they want $6 billion apiece for the two franchises for expansion.

"That would mean a check for $400 million to every NBA owner, all 30.

“In the last few days there’s been some I think legitimate buzz about Jeff Bezos buying the Celtics, and I think it’s real. I think he’s gonna be one of the suitors.

"Which got me thinking, what does he want? It's one of the crown jewel franchises - that's why you get it.

"But I think it's real that he's in the mix."

Bezos previously showed a strong interest in trying to purchase NFL franchise Washington Commanders.

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He was ultimately outbid by a consortium led by Josh Harris, who bought the team for $6.05bn.

Liverpool ownership group FSG are also said to be be interested in purchasing the Celtics, who also own the Boston Red Sox.