Qudus Salihu
Rumours of a sensational €10 billion takeover bid for FC Barcelona, potentially funded by Saudi Arabia, have sparked intense speculation regarding the future of Newcastle United and the Kingdom’s stance on multi-club ownership.
Spanish reports claimed that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman was considering a monumental bid for the financially troubled Catalan giants, raising the immediate question of whether the country’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), would need to sell its stake in Newcastle United to proceed. The PIF currently owns an 85% stake in the Premier League club.
However, the Saudi stance on divesting from Newcastle remains firmly opposed to the speculation. Despite constant rumours linking the PIF to other major European clubs (including previously Manchester United), sources close to the fund have consistently made it clear that selling any shares in Newcastle is not a possibility.
This is based on two key factors:
PIF Commitment: PIF officials, including former chief executive Amanda Staveley, have stated publicly that the fund is committed to a long-term project at St. James’ Park, viewing it as a favoured and foundational investment in European football.
Regulatory Hurdles: The Premier League’s multi-club ownership rules would almost certainly prevent the PIF from acquiring Barcelona while maintaining control of Newcastle United, even if the proposed investment came directly from the Crown Prince rather than the PIF itself.
Moreover, any full takeover of Barcelona is legally blocked as the club is owned by its members (socios), meaning any Saudi investment would likely have to take the form of sponsorship or partial, non-controlling equity. The widely circulated claim that Newcastle would be sold to fund the €10bn bid is therefore viewed as highly unrealistic, with PIF fully focused on their ongoing efforts to build the Magpies into a powerhouse.
Qudus Salihu
Mustapha Sheidu
Rabiu Aminu
