Saudi Arabian private investment firm PIF are considering geo-political factors as part of their approach to invest in Inter, Italian media claim.
PIF, linked directly to the Saudi state and Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, have been touted as potential buyers in a minority stake in the Nerazzurri, with current owners Suning looking to offload the club in order to manage mounting debts.
According to Calcio e Finanza, PIF view Inter as an opportunity to emulate other Arab investors in European football, with the UAE-owned Manchester City and Qatari Paris Saint-Germain prime examples.
PIF consider that investment in an illustrious European football club is a strong marketing tool as Saudi Arabia looks to develop it’s tourism sector, whilst also being an opportunity to diversify and invest away from oil production.
Regional tensions are also suggested as a factor, with Saudi Arabia looking to compete against Qatar, Dubai and Abu Dhabi for greater influence in the Arab peninsula.
