Boris Johnson gets involved in Newcastle United takeover debate as the Prime Minister calls for Premier League statement

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for the Premier League to make a statement on the failed Saudi bid for Newcastle United.

By Liam Kennedy

Published 7th Aug 2020, 15:37 BST- 1 min read

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with Boris Johnson in 2019.

Last week the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, Reuben Brothers and PCP Capital Partners made a statement saying they were pulling out of the £300 million deal to buy United from Mike Ashley, citing Premier League delays in the owners and directors test as one of the major issues for the breakdown.

And in a letter to a fan, shared via the Newcastle United Supporters Trust, Johnson agrees the top flight must come out and publicly make a statement.

He said: “(He) agrees with their conclusion that the Premier League should make a statement on this case.”

It continues: “I am pleased that the Ombudsman has committed to advising the Premier League to provide a statement."

Government ministers have previously stated the government would not get involved in the league’s test process, or apply pressure.