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Shay Given has told Sky Sports’ The Football Show (Thursday, 10.55) that he is hopeful of a takeover at Newcastle United and commented on links with Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid icon Gareth Bale.
Given is highly thought of on Tyneside for his 449 appearances for Newcastle during his time in the north east. Indeed, the 134-time Ireland international spent almost 12 years at Newcastle – before leaving to join Manchester City.
Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners have been financially backed by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), the latter of which will take over 80%. Staveley, and the Reuben Brothers, will secure 10% of the club each.
Asked about a potential takeover, Newcastle icon and now Derby coach Given stated that he is hopeful Ashley is finally ousted him his post as Toon owner – and even commented on links with Mbappe and Bale.
“Yeah we hope so,” Given said, when asked if he wants a takeover to go through. “Some of the big clubs might not be as keen, given the potential financial wealth of Newcastle’s new owners. When that stadium is rocking, it is a phenomenal place to play.
“If this new ownership comes in and gets rid of Mike Ashley, then it is exciting times. It would be great for the city. Links with Mbappe and Bale, if those days were back – like Owen and Shearer – it would be very special.”
TBR’s view – Can Newcastle’s potential new owners go big in the market?
Newcastle have been linked with numerous players, both high-calibre, Champions League stars and also young, up-and-coming prospects. Every position has been covered by the links, perhaps except from a goalkeeper.
Philippe Coutinho, Kalidou Koulibaly, Bale, James Rodriguez, Arturo Vidal, Willian, Edinson Cavani and plenty more have been linked with a move to Tyneside. But can the new owners go big, and should they?
Financial Fairplay is likely to keep a cap on their aims, but the new owners should not look to go massive immediately – especially if they are to learn from where Manchester City went wrong, such as Robinho.
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