THE fiancee of murdered Jamal Khashoggi wants to meet Premier League chiefs before they rule on Newcastle’s takeover.
But Hatice Cengiz’s efforts may be too late amid claims the deal has been approved and an announcement will be made as soon as Monday.
Hatice Cengiz has called for Newcastle fans to fight against the Saudi takeoverCredit: Getty – Contributor
The Premier League declined to comment on those reports or whether they would meet her.
Those representing Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and dealmaker Amanda Staveley were unable to confirm or deny the £340million buyout was on the verge of going ahead.
Cengiz, through lawyer Rodney Dixon, followed up her previous letter to the Prem board and its clubs calling on them to block the takeover.
She accuses the League of brushing her off and not giving her reassurance her concerns will be addressed.
Cengiz insists the deal, which would give the PIF an 80 per cent stake in Newcastle, is in breach of the PL’s owners’ and directors’ test.
Journalist Khashoggi was murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018.
Independent investigators claim Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was directly involved — which he denies.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is a driving force behind the takeoverCredit: Rex Features
Bin Salman is chairman of the PIF and effectively ruler of the oil-rich nation, so Cengiz says he would exercise control over Toon, even if not named as a director.
Prem rules forbid anyone from having such a role if they have engaged in conduct that would constitute a serious offence in the UK, even if they had not been convicted of any crime.
Cengiz recently sent an open letter to Newcastle fans appealing to them to oppose the deal.
Jamal Khashoggi was known as a high-profile critic of Crown Prince Mohammed bin SalmanCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Sam Allardyce says Newcastle takeover is going to be ‘very difficult’ for Steve Bruce and compares the situation to his own sacking by new owner Mike Ashley in 2008
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
