Buyout critics will not put off Saudi backers

SAUDI Arabian backers remain committed to completing the takeover of Newcastle United, despite the fierce criticism surrounding their bid.

The wait for an answer from the Premier League has also not deterred the Magpies’ would-be owners.

Fresh suggestions the league has stalled on the outcome of the owners’ and directors’ test have surfaced as the takeover saga enters its third month.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will remain patient and is now waiting for approval from the Premier League, who are going through a raft of stringent procedures.

The Middle East backers are trying to wrestle power from Mike Ashley along with Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers.

However, the Saudis have come under fire for their human rights record and are at the centre of a media rights dispute with neighbours Qatar, the World Trade Organisation set to publish the findings of their investigation next week.

Hatice Cengiz, the fiancee of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has also been vocal about her opposition to the deal.

The Premier League’s main dilemma is believed to be the piracy issue, however, and clarity on any possible connections between PIF and the beoutQ network need to be established before the tests can be passed.

Protests from Qatar-based beIN Sport and the channel’s main presenter Richard Keys have resulted in Premier League chiefs having to take further examinations on the proposal.

Ashley expected the deal to be pushed through last month but has been powerless to intervene on proceedings.

A message from the Sports Direct supremo to staff at St James’ Park has been to continue with life as normal until they are told otherwise.

Managing director Lee Charnley has been carefully working through Project Restart and sanctioning other plans for next season, such as recruitment and contracts.

A clutch of players have been given dates for contract meetings towards the end of this month, including striker Andy Carroll, whose deal is due to run out in less than three weeks.

Negotiations with Matty Longstaff did not progress last week with a £20,000-per-week offer believed to be incentivised with the midfielder needing to play in almost every game to achieve that type of money.