The Middle East consortium who vowed to bring back the good times to Newcastle United have had their takeover bid for Derby County accepted by the English Football League.
The Rams could soon be owned by the Bin Zayed Group with the cousin of Man City owner Sheikh Mansour, Sheikh Khale bin Zayed Al Nehayan receiving approval from the EFL today.
Having had the green light from the EFL at a board meeting the deal for Derby should go through this month barring any late glitches.
Talks are at the latter stages and due diligence is said to have been completed for the takeover from the UAE-based investors.
The Bin Zayed Group released a statement in 2019 which read: "In response to the numerous reports in the world media this morning, we would like to comment as follows, we can confirm that representatives of His Highness Sheikh Khaled Bin Zayed Al Nahyan are in discussions with Mike Ashley and his team, about the proposed acquisition of Newcastle United Football Club.
"We view it as an honor to have the opportunity to build on the strong support, history and tradition of the club. We have agreed terms and are working hard to complete the transaction at the earliest opportunity."
But Ashley responded months later saying: "The last bid, the one from UAE, he's a prince and he's got £38bn or £100bn, all these numbers — well, why would you even care what you're paying then?
"What difference would £10m either way make? You would want speed, you would want certainty, you would want the keys and to get on with it.
"I will not stand in the way of Newcastle United. I will not stop that, if it happens."
