Former midfielder Ivano Bonetti has confirmed that former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Al Thani is in talks to buy Sampdoria.

Al Thani, who was the Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, is a member of the royal family in the gulf state and Bonetti has now detailed the ongoing negotiations between the Sheikh and the Blucerchiati. The Ligurian club is currently owned by Massimo Ferrero, who was arrested in December of last year for corporate offences and fraudulent bankruptcy.

Speaking to Radio Sportiva, Bonetti confirmed that Sheikh Al Thani was involved in takeover talks with Sampdoria.

“I can say what I know, what I hear and read. There is too much speculation in the media, they should all take a step back and concentrate on the football played. As Vidal confirmed, there are negotiations with Sheikh Al Thani. 

“Negotiations can end well or badly, it depends on the will to close. Some things are true, but let’s turn off the light and let them work. The character is gigantic, it would be a great marriage.”

Skepticism has been raised about the involvement of film producer Francesco Di Silvio, but Bonetti has called for calm.

“Di Silvio is an established producer, he is serious, he has big contacts but he is not the one buying Sampdoria. He doesn’t have the potential. 

“He has introduced a fantastic figure like Al Thani. If the deal goes through, they should make a statue of him. I’m just hoping that Samp will go into the hands of top people.”

The former midfielder commented on the noise surrounding the takeover talks.

“We’re all following the affair, not only Mancini and Vialli. Also Mannini, Lanna who is doing a wonderful job. 

“He is fighting almost alone, because he is the real football man and he has to deal with managers who should be doing something else and instead are talking about technical matters.”

Finally, Bonetti made a brief comment about Sampdoria’s poor start to the Serie A season.

“I’m enormously sorry because I have remained very attached to the environment. In this particular situation, also because of the club, it’s sorrowful. 

“The club has an exceptional fan base, fantastic colours, a wonderful history. To see it like this is tough. But notice what the fans do on Sundays.”

Sheikh Al Thani founded the Qatar Investment Authority in 2005, who took over French giants Paris Saint-Germain in late 2012.

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