Maguire: PL will not block Toon buyout

FOOTBALL finance expert Kieran Maguire has explained the delay behind the Newcastle United takeover - and is confident the Premier League will not intervene to block the change of hands.

Mike Ashley’s 13-year reign at St. James’ Park is set to come to a close with the Saudi-backed takeover on the brink of completion, although it has attracted plenty of criticism.

One issue which has been raised is the piracy problem in Saudi Arabia, which has been streaming Qatar-based BeIN Sports illegally causing frustration for the Premier League and their biggest overseas broadcaster.

However, while this remains an issue which needs to be resolved, Maguire believes the takeover could help solve the problem.

He said: “The Premier League are unhappy with what has happened with their Middle Eastern broadcasting partner and the piracy but, having said that, there is piracy all over the world.

“I think the Premier League would like a resolution to this and it could be Newcastle being acquired by a Saudi company might actually make things better for all parties.

“The owner’s and director’s test looks to see whether or not the person has had any convictions outstanding, any bankruptcy or any involvement with other clubs and there is no evidence of that.

“The other issue is whether the prospective owner has enough money to fund the club in the next two years - and if the Saudis don’t then God help us all because they have more money than the rest of the planet.

“There have been some parties trying to link the owners with the piracy and that is the only way any potential Premier League prevention of the takeover might take place.”