Richard Keys touts 'open goal' for Henry Mauriss as Newcastle United takeover stalls
Richard Keys has again weighed into the Newcastle United takeover saga.
Keys has been a vocal opponent of the proposed Saudi Arabia-backed takeover of the club, which has been with the Premier League for approval since April.
The broadcaster – who works for Qatar-based beIN Sports, who have objected to the £300million deal on the grounds of TV piracy in the kingdom – has also repeatedly talked up a rival bid from little-known American investor Henry Mauriss.
In a blog post, Keys said: “The Saudi’s will try again after shooting themselves in both feet. I originally said one foot – but it was both. Hiring (former chancellor) Phillip Hammond to lobby is part of the new strategy, although why they’ve chosen him I don’t know.
“Henry Mauriss is still at the table. If he wants it – it’s an open goal. (United owner Mike) Ashley is a willing seller – Mauriss has to get his deal done. Simple.”