THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
ROME — Italy’s Premier-elect Silvio Berlusconi has given his blessing if American billionaire George Soros is really intent on buying AS Roma.
There was speculation that Berlusconi — who owns rival AC Milan — might oppose such a move on grounds he wanted to keep foreigners out of the Serie A, but he rejected those theories Wednesday.
"If someone comes in who can make the fans happy by strengthening the squad, he’s more than welcome," Berlusconi told a local radio station.
Last week, Roma issued a statement saying that representatives of Compagnia Italpetroli SpA, which holds a 67 per cent stake in the club, had met with "a potentially interested party."
Roma would not identify the interested party, but Italian media have reported that Soros is behind the possible takeover, saying he could offer some 250 million euros (C$405 million) for Italpetroli’s stake.
Soros Fund Management LLC has repeatedly denied comment — but has not denied interest in Roma.
Berlusconi said foreign investment in soccer "is a practice that has become somewhat common in Europe. Just look at what has happened in England with Abramovich."
Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 and the club is currently competing in the Champions League semifinals against Liverpool, which is run by American co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr.
Berlusconi said he would in no way block a foreign offer for Roma.
"If anything, to the contrary. I am very respectful of the rights of others," he said.
Roma captain Francesco Totti left the hospital Wednesday following knee surgery and was asked if he preferred Italian or American ownership.
"I think the club should always speak Roman," Totti said.
Italian soccer federation president Giancarlo Abete also said he was open to foreign ownership, but reminded that soccer is "historically based on the input of great families."
"Given that the Sensi family has given and is giving a lot to Roma, it will be up to the Sensi family to evaluate the best functioning scenario," Abete was quoted as saying by the ANSA news agency.
Italpetroli is controlled by Franco Sensi, the president of Roma. Sensi’s daughter, Rosella, is the club’s chairwoman.
"We have to prepare ourselves to be open to this new reality, but we also have to maintain the affection of the great families in our sport," Abete said. "I don’t think we’re at the point where 15 of 20 clubs will fall into foreign hands. I would not be so enthusiastic about that."
Berlusconi, meanwhile, will retain ownership of Milan but will resign as club president again when he steps into office of premier for the third time, likely next month.
"I think they are incompatible," Berlusconi said of the two jobs.