Qatari Fund Reportedly Takes an Interest in Inter

Inter have enjoyed a few years of stability and healthy finances after Oaktree took them over by default after their previous owner failed to repay a loan and had used the club as collateral. The governors are considering their next moves. There’s interest from Qatar, Corriere della Sera reports (via Calciomercato).

The Al Mirqab fund has sent out feelers to see if the club is for sale or whether it’s possible to acquire a stake in it. It is based in Doha and handles the assets of Sheik Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani. He often spends time in Milan, having acquired a historic building downtown for €1.1B. He also bought Villa Certosa from the Berlusconi family for €350M.

Inter are now estimated to be worth between €1.5B and €2.1B. Considering the upcoming new stadium, Oaktree could easily ask for more. The talks with the counterparty have been preliminary so far.

The Nerazzurri president, Giuseppe Marotta, didn’t shut down the rumors when given the chance, as he was quizzed about it by DAZN over the weekend (via Calcio e Finanza).

“Ownership has concretely proven its constant support by investing in infrastructure. They improved our balance sheets. We’re in safe hands. I’m not privy to their decisions and don’t meddle in these matters. However, whatever they do, it’ll be for the good of the club and to solidify its past, present, and future.”

Our Take on Inter

Mending a team’s finances and flipping it for profit is often the endgame for hedge funds that get into sports. Oaktree was roped into it almost involuntarily. They have shepherded it toward a successful and profitable era. Some bloated figures would be tough to pass up.