Premier League boss set to step over Saudi-led Newcastle takeover
Premier League chairman Gary Hoffman is set to resign following the backlash to the controversial Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle United.
According to several reports by the English Media, Hoffman is close to stepping down in the aftermath of the Premier League’s handling of the blockbuster Newcastle United takeover last month.
Top-flight clubs reportedly complained to the Premier League in October after the protracted £305 million ($409 million) deal went through.
The takeover has been criticised with regard to Saudi Arabia’s poor human rights record.
The Premier League approved the takeover, which saw Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) take an 80 per cent stake in Newcastle United, after receiving “legally binding assurances” that the Saudi state would not control the club.
It is understood Premier League clubs subsequently voted through a one-month ban on sponsorship deals linked to owners to allow time for further debate on the issue and possibly force through a permanent ban.
Hoffman has been Premier League chairman for 18 months.
As it stands now, neither the organization nor the president has commented on the development, but our credible source suggests the PL boss could be resigning anytime soon.
By: Elisha Aberiganya | Follow us on Twitter @activtvgh
