Roma's fate changed in 2020 when the Friedkin group purchased the club to fuel it with new ideas, fresh money, and some top caliber signings. Now, the club could head into a new direction thanks to a new offer by a powerful Saudi Arabian investor.
The Saudi General Entertainment Authority, led by Turki Alalshikh, had already entered negotiations with the Friedkin group last summer to buy the club, but despite a hefty $900M offer, Roma's American owners decided to keep control of the Serie A side.
Now, a new bid that would surpass the $1B mark may be tempting enough for the American investors to sell the giallorossi, who are struggling to find their feet this season after two and a half years under Jose Mourinho.
According to a report by La Repubblica, contacts between both parties started when the GEA signed a deal to sponsor Roma's shirt, with Riyadh Seasons hotel being now the team's main jersey sponsor. The deal even saw Friedkin representative Eric Williamson making the trip to Saudi Arabia to sign the contract.
Moreover, the Italian newspaper has added that Williamson has also traveled to supervise all dealings that have to do with a possible sell. The deal would see its value increase if Roma execs can convince the city to grant a permit to build a new stadium.
As things stand, there will be quite a few weeks of negotiations left until a final decision is reached, but it certainly would be interesting to see the effect Saudi Arabian funds could have for the giallorossi on the long run.
