Amid ongoing discussions about the ownership of Newcastle United, the Premier League has decided not to reexamine the legality of the club’s Saudi-led takeover.
This decision comes in response to newly surfaced claims regarding the involvement of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Leaked Messages Raise Questions
Recently released WhatsApp messages from 2020 have shed light on the negotiations that took place during the takeover process.
In these messages, financier Amanda Staveley expressed concerns to associates of then-owner Mike Ashley, stating, “The Crown Prince is losing patience – I need to assure him we will get there.”
She followed up with another message indicating that Yasir Al-Rumayyan was attempting to retain the deal and persuade the Crown Prince not to withdraw.
The Takeover Approval Process
The controversial £305 million takeover was approved in October 2021 after Ashley consented to the sale.
During this process, the Premier League received “legally binding assurances” that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, led by Bin Salman, would not exert control over Newcastle.
Subsequently, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) secured an 80% stake in the club, with Bin Salman serving as chairman of the PIF.
Premier League’s Stance
The recent disclosure of Staveley’s messages has reignited concerns about political interference in the takeover and whether the promised separation between the PIF and the Saudi government was maintained.
However, sources indicate that the Premier League has no intention of revisiting this matter.
They were aware of governmental interactions at the time, but these did not affect their decision-making process during the Owners’ and Directors’ Test conducted by the Premier League Board.
Staveley’s Departure and Legal Clarifications
Staveley has since sold her stake in Newcastle and left the club this summer.
In light of the leaked messages, her legal team has clarified that she mentioned the Crown Prince solely in his role as chairman of the PIF.
They argue that any suggestion of a lack of separation between the Saudi state and the club’s operations is “as illogical as it is misconceived.”
What’s Next for Newcastle United?
As the debate continues over the implications of these leaked messages, fans and analysts alike are left to wonder about the future of Newcastle United and the broader landscape of sports ownership in the UK.
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