Former Chelsea striker Alexandre Pato could be eyeing a surprise return to English football. But this time, it would not be on the pitch.
The 36-year-old is reportedly in talks about a potential takeover of an English club currently playing in League Two.
Pato was present at the JobServe Stadium on Saturday to watch the club’s match. He was part of a small group of guests invited to attend the game.
Before kick-off, the chairman of the club took Pato to the pitchside, as the team went on to secure a 2-1 victory.
According to the Daily Gazette, Pato has already held behind-the-scenes discussions with Robbie Cowling about the possibility of investing in Colchester United.
However, there is still no clarity on whether Pato would submit a formal bid or what role he would take on if a deal progresses.
Pato enjoyed a high-profile playing career at the top level of European football. After turning professional with Internacional, he joined AC Milan in 2007 and spent six years in Italy.
During his time at Milan, he scored 63 goals and registered 18 assists in 150 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most exciting forwards of his generation.
In 2016, he had a brief loan spell at Chelsea, arriving from Corinthians. His time in west London was short, with just two competitive appearances. His only Chelsea goal came away at Aston Villa.
Pato later featured for Sao Paulo, Villarreal, Tianjin Tianhai and Orlando City before retiring last year. At international level, he scored 10 goals in 27 appearances for Brazil national team.
The Brazilian’s estimated net worth is reportedly over £100 million. His has earned that not only through his football career but also from his businesses.
Pato has invested in property, launched a fashion line, a vodka brand, and owns a chain of burger restaurants in Brasilia. Also, he had sponsorships, including deals with CoverGirl cosmetics.
Now, Pato could be preparing for an entirely new chapter in football. But this time, he will be in the boardroom rather than the dressing room.
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