TIPSLIFEHACKS

Is Inter Milan on the market? According to Italian football finance expert Carlo Festa, a recent move by Oaktree Capital suggests a possible future sale of the Nerazzurri. Festa believes that Oaktree's refinancing of Inter Milan's bond isn't just a standard financial manoeuvre, but rather a strategic preparation for a potential exit.

For those unfamiliar, Oaktree Capital became the majority shareholder of Inter Milan in 2023, taking over from Suning Holdings Group. The deal involved a significant debt-to-equity swap, with Oaktree assuming control of the club in exchange for restructuring the club's financial obligations. This refinancing, Festa argues, is a key component of that ongoing strategy.

Why Refinance Now? Festa's analysis centres around the timing and nature of the refinancing. He suggests that Oaktree, known for its expertise in distressed debt and turnaround situations, is actively positioning Inter Milan to be an attractive asset for potential buyers. Refinancing the bond makes the club's financial picture more appealing, reducing risk and increasing its overall value.

“Refinancing the bond is a common practice, but the timing here is significant,” Festa explained. “It suggests Oaktree is laying the groundwork for a future sale, making the club more presentable to investors.”

What Does This Mean for Inter Milan? While the prospect of a sale might raise concerns among Inter Milan fans, Festa emphasizes that Oaktree's involvement has already brought stability and a renewed focus on financial discipline. The refinancing itself doesn't immediately threaten the club's operations. However, it does signal a shift in the long-term ownership strategy.

The club has been working hard to comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, and Oaktree's management has been credited with improving the club's financial health. A future sale, if it occurs, would likely be contingent on Inter Milan maintaining its competitive edge and adhering to these regulations.

The Bigger Picture: Serie A and Investment This situation also highlights the broader trends in Italian football, where many clubs are grappling with significant debt. The influx of foreign investment, like that seen with Oaktree's involvement in Inter, is often driven by the potential for long-term growth and increased value, but it also introduces the possibility of changes in ownership.

Whether or not Oaktree ultimately decides to sell Inter Milan remains to be seen. However, Carlo Festa's analysis provides a compelling insight into the financial machinations behind the scenes and suggests that the club's future ownership is far from settled. Fans will be watching closely to see how this situation develops and what it means for the Nerazzurri's on-field performance and long-term prospects.