Revealed: The two summits held by would-be Newcastle owners
The would-be owners of Newcastle United held two summits this week – one to discuss possible transfer targets and another to look at current squad options.
Although it was a week of negative publicity for the chances of a quick resolution, the consortium are still ‘in play’ and believe they have answered relevant questions to the Premier League.
They have commissioned an in-depth look at the squad and have ideas about who to retain, although would speak to Head Coach Steve Bruce first. They had anticipated being able to speak to Matty Longstaff before his deal expires next week.
Some potential targets have now passed the consortium by, raising further frustration about the impasse.
The battle with BeIN Sports has delayed the takeover and raised doubts about whether a resolution is possible in the current parameters. The spectre of Henry Mauriss – the little-known ‘second bidder’ – has been raised this week along with a third possible interested party. But focus remains on the Saudi bidders, who seemed a shoo-in to be the new owners by now.
One insider said they was “99% certain” the buy out would happen on day one of the owners’ and directors’ test but, in their own words, the “needless” ban of beIN SPORTS in Saudi Arabia has further raised doubts. beIN SPORTS, of course, are the Premier League’s official Middle East broadcasters.
With the season finished, there will be a renewed push on all sides for the Premier League to make a call this week.
