ROME - Pharmaceutical magnate Francesco Angelini is interested in buying 60 or 70 percent of Italian soccer club AS Roma.

The Serie A side have been the subject of interest for several years, with billionaire financier George Soros walking away from talks last year.

Rather than take all the club, I would be interested in buying 60 or 70 percent, perhaps with someone who has already contacted me, Angelini was quoted as saying in Italian media on Saturday.

In a series of statements, Roma and their controlling company, Italpetroli, have said no talks had taken place and that no serious offers had been rejected.

Roma are sixth in Serie A and look set to miss out on the lucrative Champions League next term.

Their disappointing season has led to unrest among supporters, who have criticised club president Rosella Sensi and coach Luciano Spalletti.

Sensi has frequently expressed her love for the club and has said she would find it difficult to sell.

(Writing by Mark Meadows; Editing by Peter Rutherford; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)

George soros