The Saudi owners of Newcastle United are reportedly engaged in discussions with Inter Milan. It is suggested that Newcastle United’s ownership is currently in the process of negotiating a significant agreement with the Serie A club. Despite speculations about the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) expressing interest in acquiring Inter Milan, the Turin-based newspaper, Tuttosport, indicates that the current focus of Newcastle United’s owners is on a commercial deal rather than a takeover.
According to Italian media, PIF, which acquired an 80% stake in Newcastle United in 2021, is actively pursuing commercial partnerships in European football. This aligns with their previous ventures, as they have already secured prominent sponsorships in Serie A, including Riyadh Season becoming Roma’s front-of-shirt sponsor and Riyadh Air becoming Atletico Madrid’s main shirt sponsor.
The flurry of investments has fueled speculation about Newcastle United’s majority owners contemplating the acquisition of another European football club, potentially creating a multi-club model. Amanda Staveley, a co-owner with a 10% stake in Newcastle, mentioned earlier in the year that they are exploring various opportunities to expand their brand and club.
Staveley emphasized the importance of strategically approaching any potential multi-club model, considering factors such as changes in Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) points, choosing the right territory, and ensuring compatibility with different fan bases and regions. She also hinted at exploring alternative structures that could provide more opportunities to collaborate with multiple clubs, although this concept is in its early stages. Staveley highlighted the complexity of such endeavors and stressed the need to clearly define goals when venturing into the multi-club model.
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