Big investments in soccer come under scrutiny

Interventionist approach or passive managers is seen as key question

Chinese investors are beginning a determined drive into European soccer, investing both at the club level and in the sport's infrastructure. While welcomed by many, the surge has raised serious questions about long-term intentions.

Shanghai Jinxin Investment Fund, a partnership between Beijing Baofeng Technology Co Ltd and Chinese financial services company Everbright Securities Co Ltd, announced in May an agreement to acquire a 65-percent stake in Italian-owned MP & Silva Ltd, the world's number one soccer rights agency, for around $1 billion. MP & Silva distributes sports programming to more than 200 broadcasters in 215 countries, including English Premier League and Formula One motor racing.