Parma confirm sale to Russians

By Football Italia staff

Parma director general Pietro Leonardi confirmed Parma have agreed terms with new Russian-Cypriot owners.

It’s reported the deal is worth only €5m to buy the club and take on its debts from President Tommaso Ghirardi, while ANSA suggests it's closer to €8m.

“We were informed this morning by the President that the talks had intensified, so clearly today we wanted to give the team an extra push for the game,” Leonardi told Sky Sport Italia ahead of a Serie A match against Lazio.

“I think this had been going for a while. The President dealt with it personally and over the last few days the situation stepped up a few gears, that’s what we were told.”

Parma are in financial difficulty and will be docked points this season for missing a deadline to pay outstanding wages and taxes.

The squad and Coach Roberto Donadoni were also told of the situation ahead of today’s game at the Stadio Tardini.

“We must certainly realise there is an emotional connection with the patrons and the Ghirardi family. On the other hand, there is curiosity to know the new owners if this deal is indeed confirmed.

“We were told the deal has been agreed and will be finalised with the paperwork signed by all sides. We know there is this lawyer Fabio Giordano who will become the Executive Vice-President.

“I can say that both sides are satisfied with the terms of the agreement.”

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