The billion-dollar sales of USA sports franchises is a sign of the 'huge growth' available to Newcastle United and their Premier League rivals. That is the view of Magpies co-owner Jamie Reuben after he was asked about the prospect of top-flight clubs catching up with the valuations across the Atlantic.
Reuben along with co-owners Mehrdad Ghodoussi, Amanda Staveley and the backing of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, eventually saw their takeover approved in October 2021. Mike Ashley agreed to the mid-season £305 million sale, with Newcastle's top-flight status in serious doubt after a nightmare opening to the campaign.
Steve Bruce's side sat in the relegation zone after a winless beginning to the season, and a first victory would not arrive until December under his replacement Eddie Howe. The owners' decision to green light the deal despite the team's struggles has quickly been vindicated however, with the Magpies now preparing for a first European campaign in a decade after securing a Champions League spot.
