NEWCASTLE will look to find a way around their broadcasting block by bidding for the Premier League TV rights, according to reports.
The Toon’s £300million Saudi Arabia takeover is on the rocks after the World Trade Organisation ruled their new prospective owners are behind pirate TV station beoutQ.
Newcastle’s takeover bid is backed by crown prince Mohammed bin SalmanCredit: Reuters
The Guardian claims a report to be published in June will reveal the station, which illegally streams live Premier League games, is Saudi-backed.
The WTO say Saudi Arabia is in breach of international law.
And the ruling will cast huge doubt over the takeover of Newcastle, which is led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and backed by crown prince Mohammed bin Salman.
beIN Sports currently hold the rights to show the Premier League across the Middle East and Africa in a £500million deal until 2022.
But that deal is set to be renegotiated next year with the Mirror reporting how the Public Investment Fund will play their hand by attempting to outbid their broadcasting rivals.
They believe it could exploit a loophole and help their cause to buy Newcastle although it would further delay their plans to invest in the club.
SunSport exclusively revealed on Sunday the Premier League were set to give Amanda Staveley’s Saudi-backed consortium the green light to take control of St James’ Park.
She was hoping to get an official word this week before rubber-stamping the deal on June 1.
It now remains to be seen if Newcastle do indeed get the finances they have longed for.
Should the takeover go through, Steve Bruce is not expected to be kept in the dugout.
And two men are thought to be in pole position to take charge of the dressing room.
The first is former boss Rafa Benitez, still loved by fans after his relegation survival miracles.
The other is ex-Spurs gaffer Mauricio Pochettino, who took his old side to last season’s Champions League final.
Newcastle takeover will get green light with Premier League bosses set to approve £300m Saudi buyout
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
