RMC Sport’s Jérôme Rothen has shed light on a potentially significant development in French football, revealing that a Saudi Arabian Prince has expressed interest in acquiring AS Monaco, a prominent club in Ligue 1. With Monaco currently on the market for sale, Rothen’s disclosure hints at a potential shift in ownership dynamics within the club.
According to Rothen, there are concrete indications of discussions and interactions between the Prince’s family and representatives of AS Monaco. He stated, “There’s something heavy that’s going to happen behind, and from reliable sources, on the side of the Prince’s family and the club, there has been an approach with the Saudis.” These revelations suggest a burgeoning interest from the Saudi royal family in investing in the French football landscape.
Furthermore, Rothen elaborated on the extent of the negotiations, highlighting meetings that have taken place between Prince Albert of Monaco and a member of the Saudi royal family. Such direct engagements underscore the seriousness of the interest and the potential for substantial developments in the near future.
The prospect of Saudi Arabian involvement in French football is not entirely unprecedented. In the past, there have been reports of Saudi interest in investing in other Ligue 1 clubs, notably Olympique de Marseille. Although no concrete takeover bids materialized from these previous instances, the indication of renewed interest in Monaco suggests a persistent desire from Saudi investors to establish a foothold in French football.
This reported interest from Saudi Arabia comes at a time when AS Monaco is actively seeking new ownership. Dmitry Rybolovlev’s decision to put the club up for sale has opened the door for potential investors, and the prospect of Saudi backing presents an intriguing opportunity for Monaco’s future direction. As discussions progress and negotiations unfold, the footballing landscape in France could witness a significant transformation with the potential infusion of Saudi investment.