Eddie Hearn's huge Saudi claims ahead of proposed £300m takeover at Newcastle United
In a recent interview with the Shields Gazette, Eddie Hearn has made some telling comments about the Saudi-based buyers closing in on a takeover at Newcastle United.
The boxing promoter claims the Saudis are 'not in it to mess around' and will spend big money to make sure Newcastle are on the THE 'major players' in the sport - also stating that his experience of working with them was 'first class'.
This may all seem hypothetical until it's announced Mike Ashley is officially gone, but with widespread reports now confirming the takeover will go through should they receive Premier League approval, it feels like it's finally happening this time!
Here's what Hearn had to say about a potential takeover following his dealings with the Saudis:
"They love their combat sports, but football? Another thing altogether.
"But they are major players in everything that they do. They are not around to mess around.
"And if they get involved in a football club, they are going to be spending money.
"They are not short of money, put it that way.
"It is one for a supporter. How do you feel about being taken over by a Saudi Arabian consortium? Well, we know that once we get over that, we are going to be major players.
"If they come in, they will make sure Newcastle are major players."
Hearn also dismissed criticism about his dealings with the Arab state amid human rights concerns, stating his experience with them was 'absolutely first class' - and insisting they'll plan to make Newcastle the 'biggest club' should they seize control:
"There are always concerns when you do international business but we got a lot of criticism.
"There was the human rights, etc, etc. All I can say was that our experience from start to finish was absolutely first class. Everything they promised us, they delivered.
"They do have a lot of money and that makes a big difference.
"They want the biggest of everything, the best of everything. This is why, when it comes to a football club, they won't settle for anything but buying something and making it the biggest club.
"They [Newcastle] could do worse."
With the wealth of the Saudi PIF - who are soon-to-be 80% majority owners of NUFC - standing at £250billion, it's fair to say there'd be HUGE money arriving into the club should they receive Premier League approval.
And to think that doesn't even factor in the Reuben brothers - the duo set to hold a 10% stake who are worth a cool £18bn between them!
