Datuk Dr Noordin Ahmad has purchased Serie B side Bari."> Malaysian businessman Datuk Dr Noordin Ahmad has bought Italian football club Bari. In a statement released by the club, it was confirmed that a preliminary agreement was made on April 8 when Datuk Noordin acquired a 50 percent stake of the Italian side. Bari president Gianluca Paparesta, who owns a 95 percent stake, communicated the sale to board members. Four days before the discussions were held, a Malaysian flag was spotted hanging from the terraces during Bari's home game against Cesena at the San Nicola Stadium, fuelling speculation of an impending takeover. Bari are currently in third place in Serie B on 57 points from 35 games, on course for the promotion playoffs for a spot in Serie A. Nicknamed the Galletti, Bari once held the British football transfer record for the purchase of former England midfielder David Platt for £5.5 million from Aston Villa. Datuk Noordin has arrived in Bari and will be introduced to the board members and shareholders later this week. Bari fans will likely catch the first glimpse of Italian football's first-ever Malaysian club owner at Saturday's home game against Como.
