Joseph Portelli’s proposed deal to take over Nocerina Calcio in danger of falling through

Earlier this year, Times of Malta had cited reports in the Italian media which said that Portelli had reached an agreement in principle to take over the reins of Italian Serie D side Nocerina.

It also reported that the deal could be completed by the end of March.

However, on Monday morning, reports in the Italian media said that the negotiations between the two parties had stalled, and it was likely that the Italian club would publish an official statement confirming the end of the deal.

On Monday, Nocerina Calcio announced that the club is planning to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, where they are expected to provide further light on the negotiations with Portelli.

Earlier on Monday, Times of Malta spoke with Portelli on whether there were any developments over his deal to take over Nocerina Calcio, and the Ħamrun Spartans president said that the deal was still far off from being concluded.

“There is still a lot of work to be done before we can say that the deal can be completed,” Portelli said.

“I don’t understand why Italian media said that a deal has been reached in principle, as it was never the case. There is still a lot to be done on this deal… so we still have to see how it develops.”

Gozitan entrepreneur Portelli has long expressed a desire to own an Italian football club and had an unsuccessful bid to take over Siena FC late last year, before turning his sights on the Campana team.