AS Monaco's ownership situation has taken another dramatic turn, with Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho reportedly emerging as a potential investor in the EuroCup club.
According to L'Equipe, Monaco executive director Oleksiy Yefimov received a letter of intent on Monday evening regarding a possible investment backed by Ronaldinho and Andorran investment fund Clayton Sport.
The approach arrived only hours after Monaco publicly reiterated its determination and optimism about finalizing a takeover led by former NBA All-Star Jamal Mashburn and his consortium, Helen Holdings.
Ronaldinho could challenge Mashburn takeover
Monaco remains in negotiations with Mashburn's group as the club attempts to secure the financial backing necessary to regain its place in France's Betclic Elite (French League).
However, Ronaldinho's emergence could significantly change the situation.
According to the report, the former Barcelona and Brazil superstar has now officially put himself forward as a candidate to take over the Monegasque club with the support of Clayton Sport.
Monaco racing against key deadline
The development comes at a crucial time for Monaco, who are attempting to overturn their exclusion from the 2026-27 Betclic Elite season.
The club recently confirmed that takeover discussions with Mashburn had intensified following the FFBB Appeals Chamber's decision not to admit Monaco to the French top flight.
Monaco intends to take their case to the CNOSF and has until August 18 to officially submit the reasons for their conciliation request.
The parties involved in the Mashburn negotiations had previously targeted August 14 to finalize the transaction.
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