Newcastle are currently locked in talks over a potential takeover from the Middle East, although current owner Mike Ashley is yet to sanction any deal.
After information over a possible sale of the club left Ashley puzzled, Chronicle journalist Mark Douglas has shared what he knows about the situation.
What’s he said?
It remains to be seen whether Ashley will finally sell the Magpies but it’s pretty apparent that fans are frustrated with events.
They protested against Arsenal earlier in the season while recent updates have left them angered by what’s going on.
At the centre of current talks are the Arab’s state’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), in what could be a colossal £340m deal.
But with little idea as to what will happen next, Douglas spoke on the Everything is Black & White Podcast (29/01/2020) to give his thoughts and reveal what he knows. He said:
“My understanding as of close of play yesterday [Tuesday] was that there wasn’t paperwork in with the Premier League so that suggests to me that there’s not a deal done yet and it also suggests we’d be a few weeks away from any deal being ratified which is very much the end game.
“But that doesn’t mean there couldn’t be a statement that comes on the club website anytime soon saying an agreement or a deal has been reached in principle, which I think will be the next big thing to watch for if a deal is going to happen. Ashley, I think, from my information is prepared to probably get around the table now and give any further demands or bargaining room that’s needed which will be towards the end of the process.”
Untimely
It’s typical that this news has arisen with Newcastle in such a good place on the pitch and in terms of recruitment.
Recent results against Chelsea and Everton sees the north-east side sit in 14th place while an impressive transfer window could end in yet more frustration if this takeover collapses.
Nabil Bentaleb and Valentino Lazaro have already walked through the door while Danny Rose could join on loan as well. Furthermore, Olivier Giroud has also been linked with a switch to the Toon Army.
However, potential takeovers have fallen through in the past so there is no reason why those associated with the club should be getting ahead of themselves.
Is life under Ashley really that bad? Maybe this quiz will change your minds, Newcastle fans…
Although it appears as though Ashley is now prepared to sit around the table and negotiate with PIF, a bid from Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners two years ago never materialised.
This is a testing time for the current owner but when is it ever an easy ride at St James’ Park?
Elsewhere, Newcastle may look to follow through on a deal to sign a PL-proven striker before the deadline…
