Newcastle United have confirmed they are making a legal challenge to the Premier League after takeover talks with a Middle East consortium this summer.
United have also claimed that the Premier League have “leaked” information in recent days.
The Magpies were wanted by Amanda Staveley, the Reuben brothers and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
However, the group withdrew their bid after becoming frustrated with the top-flight, despite Mike Ashley’s willingness to sell the club for £340million.
Now the club have responded to media reports concerning legal challenges.
A statement read: “The Club has previously not commented on the arbitration it is pursuing against the Premier League (‘EPL’) with respect to its conduct relating to the proposed takeover because of the confidentiality clause in the EPL's rules.
"However, the Club is aware of public reports which state that, on 17 November, the EPL referred to legal proceedings with the Club (e.g. social media posts referring to the “Club’s own legal case”) in a letter to Newcastle supporters.
"The source of some of the reporting is said to be the EPL. It appears, therefore, that the EPL has leaked the contents of their letter to some of those commenting in the public domain.
"The Club understands that these will be matters of great concern to its fans and therefore considers that, in light of the information disclosed by the EPL, it has no choice but to respond and update its fans in response to this coverage.
"The Club makes no comment on the substance of the arbitration, but it can confirm that it has issued arbitration proceedings against the EPL.
"It is unclear when those proceedings will be resolved, given the approach of the EPL and its lawyers, Bird & Bird. Nevertheless, the Club will continue to use its best efforts to press for a fair, full and timely hearing of its claim.”
