Richard Keys comments on Henry Mauriss bid, as Newcastle takeover stalls

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Richard Keys has claimed in a blog post on his personal website that the rival bid made by TV giant Henry Mauriss to buy Newcastle United will be better for the club – as the Saudi-backed takeover looks set to fail.

The Mirror claimed this week that Newcastle are planning for another season under the control of Mike Ashley as owner, with the report stating that Mohammed Bin Salman’s £300million offer has “stalled indefinitely”.

Piracy issues have been a major problem for the consortium looking to takeover at Newcastle – and it appears the Premier League are siding with BeIN Sports, and Keys. Though it is not dead – it looks likely that it is over.

Mauriss, the CEO of American station ClearTV has tabled a £350million offer and has been waiting in the wings if the Saudi-backed bid fails. Keys, who has been a constant thorn in the takeover’s side, reckons Mauriss’ bid is better.

“When the dust settles on this saga, you may see that this current bid never added up from the beginning,” Keys said. “I told you right at outset that Henry Mauriss wanted it – although I couldn’t name him – he’ll be better for the club.

“I understand Geordie desperation to see their club sold. Don’t panic guys. Trust me – Mike Ashley is as keen to sell as you are to see him gone. All is not lost in that respect.”

TBR’s view – What next for Newcastle?

The Toon are still awaiting Premier League approval for the Saudi-backed takeover to be given the go-ahead, or vice versa – the latter being more likely. Mauriss could come in, but these kind of things take time.

A decision from the Premier League remains to be seen and with Newcastle pressing on in the transfer market – which opens in just five days – it looks more than likely that Newcastle will stay under the stewardship of Ashley.