The American takeover of European sports teams continues as American businessman Timothy Barton has agreed to buy Serie A club AS Bari.
The transfer of ownership is to be completed by Oct. 31, at which time Barton will become club president, Bari said in a statement posted on its Web site Tuesday. Vincenzo Matarrese will continue as president in the interim.
“This is a fantastic opportunity,” Barton said in a statement. “The Bari fans are passionate about their team, and with the new management, we hope to grow this franchise into one of the most successful and competitive in Europe.”
Barton’s JMJ Holding specializes in buying and managing luxury properties around the world, according to the company’s Web site.
Bari return to the top flight this season as Serie B champions after eight years in the second tier. They kick off the new campaign against title holders Inter Milan at the San Siro on Sunday.