Atlanta, GA (My Sportsbook) - The Montreal Expos could be playing in San Juan by the 2004 season if an Atlanta businessman and a group of Puerto Rican investors are successful in their attempt to purchase the club, according to a published report.

The Atlanta Journal-Counstitution reported that Charles Vaughn, who is a tax and finance executive for an Australian multinational firm. has been trying to put a buyer's group together for 10 months and has several potential investors. It is unclear though if he had any confirmed partners.

Vaughn's group, SportSouth USA, sent a letter to MLB commissioner Bud Selig last week informing him of their intention to apply for ownership of the Expos, according to the report. MLB confirmed receipt of the letter, but added that it had received several similar letters from other groups interested in the Expos.

Vaughn would like the Expos to play in Hiram Bithorn Stadium, which would need to be renovated. The stadium's current capacity is 20,000 and would need to be doubled. Vaughn has already discussed the issue with local government officials.

There are said to be other parties interested in purchasing the Expos. Washington has also been rumored as a possible destination for the Expos.

A decision on the Expos future is expected to come after the 2002 season