Newcastle United-linked investors in advanced talks over a fresh takeover deal with Championship side

The Bin Zayed Group – led by Sheikh Khaled Zayed Bin Saquer Zayed Al Nayhan – were linked with a takeover of the St James’s Park outfit in 2019.

A number of holding companies, including Monochrome Acquisitions, were set up in a bid to seal the deal.

But talks eventually collapsed, paving the way for the Saudi-backed bid which continues to rumble away in the background.

But the Bin Zayed Group, who had also previously held provisional talks with Liverpool over a deal, haven’t been deterred – and are now closing in on a deal to purchase Derby through a new company called Dervenito Holdings.

In a statement released today, the Rams say: “Derby County Football Club’s Owner and Executive Chairman Mel Morris CBE has been in discussion with Derventio Holdings (UK) Limited since May in relation to taking over the ownership the club.

"These talks progressed to the point where a deal has, in principle, been agreed between the two parties.

“The club’s submission under the Owners and Director’s test for Derventio was approved by the EFL board on Thursday.

“Derventio Holdings (UK) Limited, who’s ultimate controlling entity is Bin Zayed International LLC, owned by Sheikh Khaled Zayed Bin Saquer Zayed Al Nayhan, may now proceed with the transaction, which is a expected to close very soon.

“There will be no further comment from either party until the transaction has completed.”

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