The as yet unnamed buyer has now exchanged contracts with the university and is expected to complete the deal to take over the Beaconside site in Stafford in November.
But when asked by The Sentinel if the 50-acre plot could be used for an international school or as a new campus for a Chinese higher education provider, officials said they could not comment.
The site was put up for sale as part of the university's plans to relocate 2,400 students and 350 staff to a super-campus in Stoke by this September.
Around £40 million has been invested in the College Road and Leek Road sites in the city in preparation for the move.
Margaret Monkton, the university's deputy chief executive, said: "Our legacy is important to us and the proposed uses for Beaconside are absolutely in line with that. It means that the site is retained for education and it brings a new international employer into Stafford.
"We remain committed to Stafford and are currently investing £4 million in creating a self-contained centre of excellence for our highly-rates nursing, midwifery and professional health courses at our Blackheath Lane site."
The university's business village will remain open and is unaffected by the sale. But Beaconside Nursery will shut in September.
News of the Chinese investment has been welcomed by the town's MP, Jeremy Lefroy.
He said: "Stafford is increasingly becoming a town that welcomes international partners and, clearly, the UK is very keen on closer ties with China.
"I'm aware of concerns over the closure of Beaconside sports centre on the site, but look forward to working with the investor to benefitthe public."
Staffordshire County Council leader Philip Atkins added: "Closer links with China and their growing economy is good news and, in particular, that they have chosen Stafford for their educational investment."
Patrick Farrington, leader of Stafford Borough Council, is also keen to find out more about the plans. He said: "I am delighted with the proposed use and the retention of the site."
Carl Croft, president of Stafford Chamber of Commerce, said: "Retaining Beaconside for education purposes will enhance the local economy in and around Stafford and bring new people into the area.
"I'm sure this development will also provide some incredible shared learning opportunities."
Stoke Sentinel
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