Italian journalist Carlo Festa believes that if Suning refinance before the deadline for their loan from Oaktree Capital, it would be “preparatory” for a sale of Inter Milan.

The journalist, with Italian business newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore, addressed the future of the Nerazzurri owners in a tweet.

Recent reports indicate that Suning are in negotiations to sell Inter to Saudi buyers.

But the timing of the deadline of their loan from Oaktree Capital would make it tough to carry out a sale right away. The loan comes due on the twentieth of next month.

The Inter owners can hardly complete a sale of Inter before then.

The prospective Saudi buyers are still completing their due diligence. They have yet to make a formal offer.

Therefore, Suning would have to agree an extension of the deadline with Oaktree if they are to sell Inter.

But reports have indicated for some time that that is exactly what the Nerazzurri owners are working to try and do.

Alternatively, the Nerazzurri could refinance with a new loan.

Suning Oaktree Agreement Would Be “Preparatory” For Inter Sale

If Suning can refinance or extend the deadline.

Then, the Nerazzurri owners could complete the negotiations with the Saudi contingent at a more relaxed pace, and with more leverage.

Alternatively, Suning could also negotiate with other prospective buyers.

But in any event, this may not be any indication about Suning staying on for the long-term future.

On the contrary. Italian journalist Festa anticipates that it would mainly be a matter of strategy for selling the club.

He tweeted, “As far as Inter, the clock is now ticking for Zhang.”

“As Il Sole 24 Ore already anticipated, they’re working on bridge financing. And if there is to be that, it will be preparatory for a sale.”

“And now rumours of Saudi interest have emerged,” Festa added.