VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Gozitan businessman and Ħamrun Spartans president Joseph Portelli has reiterated his ambition to acquire an Italian football club, describing Sampdoria as a “dream” purchase but confirming he is pursuing other opportunities.
Speaking to the Times of Malta, Portelli said he would be ready to take over Sampdoria if the club’s financial woes led to administration. “If Sampdoria goes bankrupt, I would not even blink twice about taking over, even if they start from Serie D,” he said.
The Maltese entrepreneur first announced his plans to buy an Italian side in September, sparking speculation amid the financial struggles of several clubs. Sampdoria, currently battling to stay in Serie B, face debts estimated between €30–€40 million, with half due immediately if sold before 2033.
Portelli said he is also exploring other options in Serie B, C, or even D. “You can buy a Serie D club cheaply and invest around €2 million to take it into the professional leagues,” he explained.
His broader aim remains to strengthen Ħamrun Spartans and Maltese football. “Any profit from the Italian club will go back to Ħamrun. The goal is to reach the League Phase of a UEFA competition every year,” he said.
Portelli added that owning an Italian side could also boost player development and training opportunities for his Maltese club.
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(ITALPRESS).
