Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns 85% of Newcastle United, has outlined its position regarding speculation that the club could be sold to finance a potential €10 billion takeover of Barcelona.
Francois Gallardo of El Chiringuito reported Friday that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is reportedly exploring a bid to acquire the financially troubled Spanish giants, who currently carry debts estimated around €2 billion.
However, any full takeover would face significant legal hurdles. Barcelona operates under a socio-ownership model, meaning the club is collectively owned by its members, and private or foreign investors cannot complete a purchase unless the rules are changed.
While opportunities for investment remain possible, it is unclear whether any funds would come directly from the Crown Prince or via PIF, of which he is chairman.
This has prompted speculation over whether PIF might consider selling part of its Newcastle stake to invest in Barcelona.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, as far back as December 2022, there was “no possibility” of PIF selling its Newcastle shares.
Saudi Arabia Confirms Newcastle Will Not Be Sold to Fund Barca Bid
Former Newcastle CEO Amanda Staveley, who held a 6% stake alongside her husband Mehrdad Ghoudoussi before leaving the club last year, told the Financial Times Football Summit:
“We wanted a club with a passionate fanbase, and we got that. We also wanted a club we could buy affordably. That’s why we didn’t go for Tottenham, Chelsea, or Liverpool. I’m a massive Liverpool fan and we tried, but walking into a Newcastle game, we said, ‘Why spend X billion when you can spend £350 million?’”
In September, Newcastle appointed David Hopkinson as CEO. Speaking to BBC Sport earlier this month, Hopkinson confirmed daily communications with PIF and emphasized the fund’s commitment to the club:
“This is a major, major global player, but I truly believe in my heart of hearts that Newcastle is their favourite investment. We occupy more of their shared mind and heart than might be expected, given the size of their investment.”
The comments suggest that despite Barcelona takeover rumors, the likelihood of Newcastle being sold remains extremely low.
