Two of Italy's top soccer clubs, Inter Milan and archrival AC Milan, say they have been approached by Chinese groups either seeking a stake or offering strategic partnerships.

A 12-person delegation from Suning Commerce Group, one of China's largest privately owned retailers, visited Inter Milan last Friday and Saturday. The club's chief spokesman Robert Faulkner said the delegation was headed by Suning Chairman Zhang Jindong.

AC Milan said it had received several expressions of interest in acquiring a stake, including some from Chinese groups.