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

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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.