Newcastle United fans are feeling hopeful after Richard Masters stated that their takeover dispute with the Premier League would be resolved in a "timely manner"
The Premier League chief executive to a letter from Blaydon MP Liz Twist who flagged up concerns with the Premier League before Christmas.
Mike Ashley has begun legal proceedings to ensure that the Saudi-backed takeover can go ahead after receiving little explanation as to why the deal was blocked.
The deal for Saudi Arabia's PIF, Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers to end Ashley's reign was not passed when it went through the owners and director's test.
After confirming in his latest letter than arbitration proceedings with Newcastle and the Premier League are underway, supporters have reacted positively to the news.
In the letter, Masters said: "In relation to any specific ongoing legal matters Newcastle United recently announced that they have commenced arbitration matters against the Premier League in connection with the proposed takeover of the club.
"Arbitrations are held in private and this is no exception.
"There are generally good reasons why parties choose to have disputes resolved by way of confidential arbitration: for example, it can be more informal, it protects sensitive information and it encourages honestly and frankness from parties and witnesses."
Masters then went on: "I would like to reiterate that it is the Premier League's desire to have the matter resolved in a timely matter."
