Belgian Top-Tier Clubs Reportedly Garnering Chinese Investors' Interest

The "majority" of Belgian Division 1A clubs have reportedly “already had talks with possible Chinese investors," according to LA MEUSE. Division 1A side Lokeren reportedly “refused a Chinese offer” of €15M ($15.8M). Lokeren President Roger Lambrecht, who has “fixed the price of his club” at €20M ($21M), said, “I have dealt with five or six people with offers coming from China, but we never got to the final stages of negotiations.” Mouscron, Westerlo and Saint-Trond owners have also “been approached by Chinese investors to purchase their clubs.” Five other clubs “are in contact with Chinese businesses, not for a total buyout,” but for sponsorship and academy deals (LA MEUSE, 3/2).