Private equity’s flirtation with football has intensified in recent years, so it is not such a surprise to see Milan-based buyout firm Clessidra emerging as a possible bidder for one of Italy’s top clubs –even if the beautiful game is more regarded as the playground sporting billionaires.

Local press reports this week that Clessidra has been linked to a consortium bidding for AS Roma, the Serie A giants who finished last season as runners up in Italy's top division.