Newcastle free to sign Saudi superstars after Prem fail to block transfer rule

NEWCASTLE CAN sign players on loan from the Saudi Pro League next month after an attempt to block the controversial move fell one vote short.

Prem chief wanted a temporary change to rules on “associated party transactions” which would have prevented Toon boss Eddie Howe from filling the void left by Sandro Tonali’s 10-month gambling ban by a potential move for former Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves.

Formal rules would then have been drafted next summer to prevent clubs from taking advantage of existing deals with other clubs or leagues to bolster their squads.

But while the measure was backed by a majority of the 20 Prem clubs at their latest “shareholder” meeting the vote did not meet the threshold required.

Under Prem rules, no measure can be adopted without the support of two-thirds of members.

That means 14 clubs in favour.

But the vote was split 13-7, meaning the current rules will remain in place and opening the door for a move for Neves.

It was a victory for Newcastle, who have spent the past few weeks seeking to rally opposition, arguing that Prem bosses had been too keen to accede to the requests of rival clubs.

More to follow…

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