Takeover deal could soon Be back in frame

BEIN Sports says it is “hopeful” of being allowed to broadcast Premier League football in Saudi Arabia after reports the channel was now being viewed openly in parts of the country.

Newcastle’s game against Arsenal on Monday was viewed in cafes and restaurants, it has been reported.

BeIN Sports responded by claiming there has been “no material change” in its status – but, tellingly, said it could be resolved soon.

The broadcaster said: “There is no change to BeIN Sports’ situation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“However, we are hopeful of positive moves to fully allow BeIN back into the country following the recent political reconciliation.”

BeIN has been blocked in Saudi Arabia since 2017 as part of a diplomatic row in the Gulf.

In the summer the General Authority for Competition cancelled its licence in what was viewed as a hammer blow to the Newcastle United takeover.

The BeOut Q piracy operation – which Saudi authorities were accused of facilitating – was a major issue for the deal, which was led by the Saudi sovereign wealth fund.

All parties acknowledge any revival of the takeover will need a resolution on piracy issues – especially after the Premier League renewed BeIN’s rights for the Middle East and North Africa until 2025.

Newcastle voted against the deal in a symbolic show of support for the Saudi PIF.

However, just as in the summer, events beyond Newcastle’s control may this time favour the deal.

The recent agreement between Gulf states to end the dispute has set the ball rolling for other issues which were problematic for the Premier League to be addressed.

The switching on of the channel in Saudi would be the first step towards resolving an issue which caused major problems for the deal.

There is also an international arbitration case launched by BeIN against the Saudi authorities for $1bn in damages as a result of the BeOut Q channel, which led to job losses and lost income.

That may be a thornier issue to settle given the sums involved but it certainly appears that the direction of travel is more promising.

Consortium members believe PIF would return to the table if a clear path to getting the deal ratified can be provided.

Current United owner Mike Ashley remains keen to sell to the Saudi-backed group – which remains the overwhelming choice of Newcastle fans.