Newcastle’s role in Derby takeover explained as EFL on red alert after Saudi approach
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Credit: Imago Mon 25 May 2026 16:12, UK Newcastle United owners PIF will be a topic of conversation among the Independent Football Regulator as Turki Al-Sheikh looks to buy Derby County.According to The Times on 25 May, the Saudi Arabian minister and head of the General Entertainment Authority will have to demonstrate that the source of his funding to take over the Rams is separate from the Public Investment Fund.Al-Sheikh has staged multiple high-profile boxing fights in recent months and is now looking to invest in English football.Saudi Arabia’s PIF, PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben Brothers bought the Magpies in 2021 and they can’t be involved in another club under EFL regulations.PIF’s ownership at St James’ Park has seen many ups and downs in recent seasons and it remains to be seen whether they have any role to play in what’s happening at Pride Park. 💰 Newcastle Finance Update 💰 Inside the PIF transfer budget, player wages, commercial growth, PSR updates and boardroom developments at St James’ Park. VISIT THE NEWCASTLE FINANCE HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Derby County takeover explained as PIF concerns emergeDavid Clowes is the current owner and chairman of Derby, purchasing the club out of administration in 2022.The property developer and lifelong fan paid £33million to buy the Rams and has since brought stability back at Pride Park, leading them to promotion from League One in 2024.Championship TablePoints3.
Derby69Third to eighth in the Championship this seasonIn the 2025-26 campaign, Derby just missed out on a play-offs spot under John Eustace, finishing eighth in the Championship.It isn’t surprising to see the Rams attracting the attention of Al-Sheikh, but it will be interesting to see whether PIF have any role to play in a potential takeover.Newcastle United face uncertainty under PIFEddie Howe’s future at Newcastle has been in major doubt this season after an underwhelming Premier League campaign.PIF have been seemingly constrained by financial regulations at St James’ Park, leading to some inconsistent years under their ownership."For a whole host of reasons, it weren't right…" Eddie Howe reacts to Newcastle's 'disappointing' performance against Fulham 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/wxWIpGNZjV— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 24, 2026 View Tweet The Saudi owners have a lot on their plate at the Magpies going into the upcoming transfer window and wouldn’t want to be caught up in the takeover situation at Derby.With Howe’s future apparently in the balance and some key players possibly up for sale at the Tyneside outfit, fans in NE1 surely have an anxious wait ahead. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.