Newcastle takeover latest as Premier League chief Richard Masters responds to questions

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters is giving little away over the controversial takeover of Newcastle United, but says there is no time limit over how long a decision will take to be made.

Toon owner Mike Ashley has agreed a £300million deal with a consortium involving the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.

If given the go-ahead, it would see the Saudi state directly involved in affairs at St James’ Park.

But the move, which would see the PIF take an 80 percent stake, has been delayed amid concerns of issues over Saudi Arabia’s alleged involvement in pirate broadcasts of the Premier League.

The World Trade Organisation has ruled the state is linked to the illegal streaming of sporting events including the Premier League.

Saudi Arabia has repeatedly denied allegations over its involvement with beoutQ, and operation which has cost the Premier League and its broadcast partner, beIN Sports, millions.

It has been labelled by beIN as "the largest commercial theft that’s ever been seen in the world of sport and entertainment.”

Masters was pushed on the subject of the proposed takeover on Sky Sports on Friday.

He said: “I can’t get into it. The takeover of football clubs is done via the directors’ and owners’ test. That process is entirely an confidential process.

“That’s why I can’t say anything about it. I can’t say anything to prejudice those discussions.

"I am afraid that I cannot go into any details.”

Asked if he could share whether a decision has been made, he added: “No, I can’t even do that. It’s that confidential.”

On possible timescale, Masters expanded slightly, saying: “I don't think timing is an issue here.

“I don't think we have any specific views about when this needs to be done by.

“What we need to ensure is that all of the processes are followed properly and when the decision is made it is the right one.”

Mirror Sport revealed earlier this week that the Saudi state are ready to outbid Qatar-based beIN when broadcast rights are renegotiated next year - a move that would go some way to smoothing their way towards ownership of the Toon.

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