American real estate tycoon, Timothy Barton, is on the verge of purchasing Italian Serie A club A.S Bari.

Barton said buying the Biancorossi, who were promoted this season after winning the Serie B title, would be a great opportunity for both himself and the fans.

"This is a fantastic opportunity," Barton told the club's official website.

"The Bari fans are passionate about their team and with new management we hope to grow this franchise into one of the most successful and competitive in Europe."

A statement said the sale should be completed by the end of October.

Bari kick off their Serie A campaign against title holders Inter Milan at the San Siro on Sunday.