Newcastle Saudi takeover in ‘serious doubt’ over ‘breach of international law’
Newcastle’s Saudi takeover is reportedly in serious doubt over a breach of international law.
The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is led by crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, is hoping to complete a £300million takeover of the Magpies.
However, PIF could fail to pass the Premier League’s owners’ and directors’ in the wake of recent allegations.
The Guardian claim the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has exposed the country for being behind pirate satellite TV channel beoutQ, which streams sporting events illegally.
The 130-page report will not be published until Mid-June, however, the Premier League have received it.
And top-flight bosses have ‘made submissions against Saudi Arabia as part of the legal process’.
The report is said to reveal that the Saudi state is behind beoutQ.
The Premier League’s owners’ and directors’ test can be failed if a crime is committed overseas or for giving misleading information.
UEFA, FIFA, the Premier League and LaLiga have attempted to take action against beoutQ in the past, but nine legal firms refused to get involved.
The complaint was taken to the WTO, who has found Saudi Arabia in breach of international law.
The news could put the Saudi takeover of Newcastle in jeopardy, with current owner Mike Ashley desperate to sell the club.