David Beckham has sounded out possible interest from Middle East investors about a stake in his Miami-based Major League Soccer team.
The former footballer has reportedly spent the past six months travelling the world, meeting with various potential investors to assist with the estimated $300 million it will cost to construct a new stadium, establish a front office and acquire high-quality players, according to a report in the Miami Herald.
The newspaper reports that sources close to the negotiations have reported “vast interest’’ from investors, naming Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) as one of a couple of groups from the Middle East who have held talks. QSI has a particular connection with Beckham, as owners of Paris Saint Germain, for which Beckham played in 2013.
During that time, Beckham reportedly established a good relationship with PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who is also chairman of Qatar-based BeINSport Media Group, which has its US headquarters in Miami.
Russian business tycoon Roman Abramovich, owner of Chelsea FC, as well as Chinese and American groups have also held talks with the former England captain.
The Miami team need to have ownership and funding in place in order to close the stadium land deal, which they hope to conclude the end of this month.
Should Beckham secure QSI’s investment, it will be the second investment from the region in the MLS, following on Sheikh Mansour’s City Football Group, which owns 80% of New York City FC.
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