Newcastle United provided 'incorrect' information to fans about the collapse of the Middle East takeover this summer - according to the Premier League.
In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, top-flight chiefs have re-iterated that the takeover for Amanda Staveley, the Reuben brothers and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund could still go through if the relevant information is supplied.
United had said last night that the takeover had been knocked back by the Premier League.
A Premier League statement read: "We are disappointed and surprised by the Newcastle United statement regarding its potential takeover by PCP/Ruebens/PIF.
"The club’s assertion that the Premier League has rejected the takeover is incorrect.
"The Premier League board has, on a number of occasions, given its opinion about what entities it believes would have control over the club should the consortium proceed with the acquisition.
"That opinion is based on legal advice.
"This means the potential takeover could proceed to the next stage should the relevant entities provide all appropriate information.
"They should then be subject to a suitability assessment by the board.
"As an alternative, the board has repeatedly offered independent arbitration as a way forward since June.
"It is also incorrect to suggest these decisions were taken by an individual; they were agreed unanimously by all Premier League board members."
United had said last night: "Newcastle United can confirm that the Premier League has rejected a takeover bid made by PCP Capital Partners, the Reuben Brothers and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) based on its Owners and Directors test.
"This conclusion has been reached despite the club providing the Premier League with overwhelming evidence and legal opinions that PIF is independent and autonomous of the Saudi Arabian government.
"The club and its owners do not accept that Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the Premier League have acted appropriately in relation to this matter and will be considering all relevant options available to them.
"Mike Ashley understands fans’ frustrations and would like to reassure them that he has been fully committed to ensuring this takeover process reached completion as he felt it was in the best interests of the club. Mike continues to be fully supportive to Steve Bruce, the players and all the staff and wishes them well for the upcoming season."
