SILVIO BERLUSCONI would stay on as honorary president at AC Milan after selling the club to Chinese investors if he can retain powers impacting the squad.

    “I would have to have some abilities to intervene, like yes or no on buying or selling players or on playing formations,” Berlusconi told reporters early Monday following Milan’s 2-2 draw with Inter in the city derby, confirming that the Chinese group offered him the position.

    “If I’m assured of that I’ll try to accept even the honorary presidency,” he added.

    The closing for the club sale is slated for Dec. 13.

    The deal with the Chinese group, which includes the participation of a state investment fund, values Milan at 740 million euros (US$800 million).

    Whether he becomes honorary president or not, it was likely Berlusconi’s final derby as Milan’s owner and the Rossoneri fans paid tribute in their pre-match choreography, unveiling a giant banner with a picture of him and all the trophies won during his tenure.

    Berlusconi owns 99.93 percent of the club, which he purchased 30 years ago. The three-time former premier and billionaire tycoon has been negotiating for more than a year to sell the seven-time European champion.

    In June, Suning, the Chinese retail giant, took control of 70 percent of Inter.(SD-Agencies)