Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has shared a quote from Premier League chief executive Richard Masters, in regards to the proposed takeover of Newcastle United. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) published a report this week in which they concluded the Saudi state was behind BeoutQ, a pirate TV station that has been broadcasting Premier League games in the region.
Masters was asked about the issue by Sky Sports and replied: “We take piracy very seriously. We stand by what we said in the past. In relation to takeovers, I can’t say anything about the substance or timing.”
The quotes were relayed on Twitter by reporter Keith Downie and here is how a sample of the St. James’ Park faithful have responded via the social media platform.
There is no link to PIF. There for, #NUFCTakeover Accepted.?
— Lee (@NostalgicNUFC) June 16, 2020
Premier league can take piracy as seriously as they like but if it doesn’t link to any people involved in the takeover, what can they do accept pass it? #NUFC
— James Knowlson (@jimknowlson) June 16, 2020
Masters really doesn’t want this takeover at all does he, there’s definitely an agenda at play. Legally PIF aren’t SA and there is nothing else to stop it unless the PL want a fight they won’t win
— Matt (@MattNufc9) June 16, 2020
He’s acknowledged that there is a piracy issue with the current takeover. Surely that’s not allowed due to NDA’s
— Jay_NUFC (@NufcBig) June 16, 2020
Do you fear the WTO's report could cause the Premier League to reject the deal?
Yes
No
These fans highlighted the fact the WTO’s report doesn’t link those who are part of the consortium hoping to complete a takeover of the club directly to the piracy issues. Richard Masters was unable to provide a detailed update, however, he did confirm that the process currently being undertaken by the Premier League has not been delayed by the global pandemic. Fans continued to make their frustrations known.
My god just make a decision
— Kieren Wilkinson (@KierenW6) June 16, 2020
It’s as if Qatar are causing trouble so the take over fails. What a surprise, said no-one, ever.
— Stephen Willis (@wincynufc) June 16, 2020
What a farcical outfit the premier league is seems to me they have no back bone 2 give it the green light or to block it so dragging it out till something significant comes to light that will block it is what they r doing. In the meantime harming 1 of there clubs pathetic #NUFC
— Alan White (@alanwwhite80) June 16, 2020
His leadership on this is appauling. He doesn’t have to give out details but he could give the fans an idea on timescales. As always fans are bottom of the list of concerns.
— Stephen (@Stephen25109397) June 16, 2020
Given the confidentiality rules, these Newcastle United fans remain none the wiser in regards to where the takeover stands. The Magpies return to Premier League action on Sunday against Sheffield United at St. James’ Park and in our view, this is becoming an unwanted distraction from matters on the pitch.