FIFA wants stricter regulation on foreign takeovers

Stricter regulation of foreign takeovers of football clubs is needed according to FIFA president Sepp Blatter. Blatter warned that the sport could be damaged if it continues unchecked.

"We need to be careful football doesn't end up in the hands of people who want football to serve them, instead of them serving football," said Blatter. "It is a very delicate matter and we need the help of the judicial authorities."

Icelandic federation president Eggert Magnusson recently paid GBP 85 million for a takeover of English West Ham. It became the sixth English Premier League club to be taken over by foreigners, following Fulham, Chelsea, Manchester United, Aston Villa and Portsmouth.

"There are investors who buy clubs, especially in England, which happens to be the most attractive," Blatter said. "We must safeguard football's independence and we need the help of politicians to do so."