Keith Wyness: Newcastle could become 'Secondary' as PIF work on new takeovers

Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Newcastle United could be a “stepping stone” for PIF’s ambitions to revolutionise football in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – claimed PIF (Saudi Public Investment Fund) could buy four more clubs in the Pro League, and eventually end up owning the entire top flight.

PIF purchased Newcastle in 2021 and added Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Hilal to their portfolio last summer (2023).

Football Insider revealed last week (13 June) that top-ranking chiefs have jetted out to Brazil to sound out potential takeover opportunities.

It is believed that PIF are also eager to acquire additional European clubs to bolster their network.

Newcastle could be ‘stepping stone’ in ambitious PIF plans, says Wyness

Wyness claimed that Newcastle could become “secondary” in PIF’s plans with Saudi Arabia set to host the World Cup in 2034.

He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “Newcastle could end up being a stepping stone.

“PIF went to town in Saudi Arabia last year, buying four clubs and stocking them with top players.

“They could now go for four more clubs, and give them resources. They could end up going for the whole league.

“The Saudi Pro League will then be more stable over the next few years.

“If that’s the case, then Newcastle may well become secondary.

“I think Newcastle, for them, has been a fantastic learning curve in how football operates.

“The chairman, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, has learned a lot about how it works at club level.

“The Saudis have the 2034 World Cup to host, so it’ll be interesting to see when new stadiums are built – and which clubs get to use those stadiums.

“Watch this space, because there will be some amazing developments coming.

“We’re going to see a big shift in the Middle East.

“Newcastle will be a valued member of PIF’s group, but they may not be the focus.”

In other news, England international responds to Newcastle approach.

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