Newcastle United takeover set for 'nod of approval'
Richard Keys says Mike Ashley will have “a lot to answer for” – if the proposed Newcastle United takeover is approved.
Financier Amanda Staveley, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and billionaire property investors David and Simon Reuben, agreed a £300million deal for the club with owner Ashley last month.
The proposed takeover is with the Premier League for approval.
Qatar-based beIN Sports have objected to the deal because of the illegal streaming of Premier League games in Saudi Arabia.
And beIN presenter Keys wrote in his latest blog: “The Saudi Government has supported the theft of intellectual properties owned by the beIN Media Group. It has cost the company I work for millions – probably billions.
“The Premier League know full well the extent of what’s been happening because they’ve been at the forefront of trying to sue for their losses.”
Keys added: “Mike Ashley has a lot to answer for if the deal goes through.”
However, Keys expects the takeover, which also faces opposition from Amnesty International because of Saudi Arabia’s record on human rights, to be given the go-ahead.
“I expect the Saudi deal will get the nod of approval this week,” said Keys. “If so, good luck to everybody connected with the club.
“As for the rest of us – stream away. What a sad, unprincipled world we live in. Be careful what you wish for (Premier League chief executive Richard) Masters. And all of you on Tyneside.”
The Gazette reported last week that approval was expected this week.