PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi went from son of a fisherman to tennis player to most powerful man in French football
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NASSER Al-Khelaifi is the name on the lips of the fans of Leeds United.
The 45-year-old Qatari businessman, with a reported worth of £4.9bn, invited close friend and Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani to a Champions League tie between PSG and Club Bruges last Wednesday.
Reports suggested that the pair were continuing discussions how Al-Khelaifi's Qatar Sport Investment could pump millions into the sleeping giant in Paris.
But who is Al-Khelaifi? He is not a Sheikh, born into wealth. In fact, he came from more humble beginnings, became a sports star and is now thought of as the most powerful man in French football.
Meet the man who is considering putting Marcelo Bielsa's side back on the map.
CATCHING FISH
Originally from Sur, Oman Al-Khelaifi wasn't born into money.
“The option of Qatar Sports Investment and Nasser — first of all they are friends, we have had a good relationship for a long time. Secondly, they have the possibility to bring this club to compete with Manchester City, so for the fans that could be a fantastic opportunity.
“The second is based in America, he’s a big fan of Leeds United since he was a child, and I like that.
“Another one is the owner of an Italian club. With another club you can create synergy to be more competitive and to target the Premier League — we could maybe get a loan to increase the quality of the team.”
KEEPS HIMSELF OUT OF THE LIMELIGHT
Al-Khelaifi's personal life is shrouded in mystery.
He's believed to be single, as he divides his time between mansions in Paris and Doha. There are more substantial properties rumoured around the world, but nothing ever confirmed.
Al-Khelaifi is also rarely seen out in public, other than at sporting engagements.
And there was the curious case of a £280k Lamborghini Aventador, wrapped in purple and featuring his initials, that once trended on YouTube and was said to be his, although he's never been seen behind-the-wheel.
The man's an enigma, but Leeds fans won't care if a substantial injection of cash allows Bielsa to spend in January and improve his promotion-challenging team.
After all, QSI took PSG from relegation fodder to a Ligue 1 title. Imagine what they could do with the Whites.