Saudi Arabia to move for Premier League TV rights to ensure Newcastle takeover

Saudi Arabia plans to bid for the Premier League TV rights and neutralise the concerns over broadcast piracy that has delayed their bid to buy Newcastle United.

The nation’s Public Investment Fund is set to take an 80 percent stake in the Tyneside club as part of a £300million takeover.

But they are facing opposition because the World Trade Organisation has ruled the state is linked to the illegal streaming of sporting events including the Premier League.

The Saudis still believe their takeover is on track and close to being given the green light by the Premier League who are running their fit and proper person test on the potential new owners.

The Middle East and North Africa broadcast deal is set to be renegotiated next year ahead of beIN Sports’ £500million, three-year contract expiring in 2022.

The Saudis believe they have the financial might to outbid their Qatar-based rival in another of their geopolitical skirmishes.

The Premier League gave evidence on the piracy issue to the WTO against the Saudis and are now in a difficult position of being asked to allow them to buy Newcastle.

A Saudi bid for the next contract, opening up new commercial opportunities for the Premier League, could see a solution found and Mike Ashley’s reign ended.

American media tycoon Henry Mauriss is still prepared to step in and buy Newcastle if the Saudi-backed bid is rejected.

Mauriss is reportedly ready with a rival offer to take control, having already spoken with owner Mike Ashley before investment ‘fixer’ Amanda Staveley tabled the Saudi bid.

Sources close to the reclusive American insist he’s watching developments with interest but won’t comment while the period of exclusivity surrounding the Saudi bid is still in operation.

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