Italian journalist Carlo Festa believes that, if Inter were to pass into the hands of Oaktree Capital, the US-based fund would already have a buyer lined up.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster TeleLombardia, via FCInter1908, the journalist explained that if Suning default on the loan from Oaktree and are forced to give up control of the Nerazzurri, the fund would have a plan to quickly sell the club.
The fact that Suning still have to pay back the massive loan that they took on from Oaktree in 2021 to cover operating expenses is a big part of the reason why there is so much speculation that the owners could sell Inter.
The loan comes due in full in a little over twelve months’ time, and given that Suning put the club up as collateral, if they are to default next May, Oaktree would take control.
It has been reported that the fund could even make a shock bid to buy the club from Suning before that time comes.
In any event, Festa believes that Oaktree are prepared for the possibility of taking over, and they would already have a potential buyer lined up, likely in fact several.
“The loan expires in May 2024, they either have to sell or discuss a new loan, but I’d see that as difficult given the rising interest rates,” the business journalist explained of the bind that Suning are in.
“Zhang has find a solution by the end of the year, perhaps by the end of this season,” he continued, “a sale should be made by the fall, they can’t let it get too close to May 2024 and risk ending up like Li at Milan.”
“If Zhang loses Inter as Li did [former AC Milan owner Li Yonghong lost control of the Rossoneri to Elliott Management after defaulting on a loan], he would gain nothing – by selling Inter he would at least manage to collect something.”
“It would be downright stupid for him to get to the due date of the loan without selling Inter,” Festa made clear.
Regarding Oaktree’s intentions, the journalist explained that “Oaktree already have a buyer lined up, that’s certain – it’s something funds normally do.”
“They probably already have more than one,” he continued.