Financier Amanda Staveley looks set to complete her proposed takeover of Newcastle United before the New Year, reports the Arab Outlet News (via Shield Gazette).
Staveley was present at the Magpies 1-1 draw with Liverpool at St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon, sparking rumours that she was set to initiate a takeover of the club from current owner Mike Ashley who has been vocal in his wish to sell.
While no official contact between the two parties had been made, a new report suggests Staveley is keen to complete a move for the club ‘as swiftly as possible’ and before the end of 2017.
“Amanda Staveley, the financial entrepreneur who made her name in Middle East investment, could use Arabian Gulf money in a possible takeover of English football club Newcastle United.” the report from Outlet Arab News said.
“She is said to be interested in the club in the northeast of England, believing it shares similar characteristics to Manchester City, which she helped Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan of the UAE buy in 2008 for £210 million ($278 million), and which has since risen to the top of the English Premier League (EPL), helped by a big injection of Gulf cash.”
Staveley, who has big ties to a number of Middle East world leaders, had previously launched a bid to take over Liverpool last year, but was unsuccessful. She however still remains keen on adding a Premier League club to her growing empire.
“A source close to Staveley told Arab News that her interest in Newcastle was at an early stage, that there had been no talks yet with Mike Ashley, the current owner, and that she was still interested in other clubs in the EPL.” the report continued.
“But it was also indicated that a deal could be done relatively quickly, if serious talks got underway, possibly by the end of the year.”
