Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reportedly performed a U-turn over Newcastle as he instead eyes up a Manchester United takeover.
When comparing the two, one is among the biggest football clubs in the world. The other hasn’t won a league title since 1927. No prize for guessing who’s who…
Bin Salman was previously linked with a takeover of the Red Devils last year, with the Express claiming earlier this month that he remains interested.
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But there has been talk over a takeover at Newcastle instead. The Shields Gazette now claim he has cooled his interest in Newcastle and could now turn his attention towards Man Utd, considering them “a Premier League jewel in the crown, rather than relegation contenders.”
Apparently the Saudi Royal Family looked at a £345m takeover of Newcastle but are said to have cooled their interested after being left annoyed by details being leaked.
The Glazers do not plan on selling Manchester United — at least, there is nothing to suggest that they want to anytime soon.
According to the Daily Mirror, Prince Mohammed was willing to pay around £3.5b for United 18 months ago only for the Glazers to insist the club was not for sale.
But recent figures show that no Champions League football has had a negative effect on the club, with broadcast revenue dropping by £39m and match day revenue down by a staggering 15%.
Net debt has increased by £73.6m and Prince Mohammed has the financial power to clear that.
MUFC Q2 results. Revenues of £168.4 million. Operating profit of £36.5 million. Commercial revenue up 7%. Broadcast down 37% with no UCL. Matchday revenue down 15% with fewer home games. Net debt is £391 million, up £73 million.
— Andy Mitten (@AndyMitten) February 25, 2020
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