Newcastle got promise from PIF long before Richard Keys made takeover claim

Newcastle got promise from PIF long before Richard Keys made takeover claimNewcastle United's Saudi owners' long-term vision for the club goes against recent takeover claimsCommentsSportMark Whiley Sports Writer09:04, 05 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesYasir Al-Rumayyan stressed PIF's approach following the club's takeover(Image: Stu Forster, Getty Images)PIF made a long-term commitment to Newcastle United that contradicts Richard Keys claiming they are attempting to sell the club. As a challenging campaign for the Magpies enters its closing stages, the club's Saudi hierarchy are conscious of discontent among certain supporters, which intensified following the derby loss to Sunderland.‌But as Chronicle Live reported last month, PIF has no intention of selling up, even if there are interested parties. Keys, the now former beIN Sports host, suggested in a recent blog post that the "project was over."‌He said: "Another whisper I picked up recently - and I don't think this will come as a surprise to anybody - I'm told the Saudis are looking to sell Newcastle.‌JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page"Regulars know I've been saying for some time the project was over. Apparently there are interested parties, but the Saudis want £1bn. £500m is nearer the mark."That suggestion is wide of the mark, with preparations for next season and beyond already gathering momentum, including a new training ground and £1million in funding to improve facilities at St James' Park.‌READ MORE: Kieran Trippier releases emotional statement as he confirms huge Newcastle decisionREAD MORE: Man Utd told Elliot Anderson would fancy Newcastle return over Old Trafford switchThat stance hasn't deviated from PIF's original position following their takeover of the club in 2021. In an open letter to supporters, non-executive chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan stressed they were in it for t...