Newcastle United target multiple loan signings in January after Premier League clubs voted for temporary ban on related-party deals

The recent influx of players from Europe to the Saudi Pro League has raised concern in England. Especially since one of the Premier League clubs, Newcastle United, is also owned by the Saudi-owned Public Investment Fund.

Since four of the Saudi Pro League’s top clubs, Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli, are owned by PIF, there is a possibility they can loan players to Newcastle United, who can gain an unfair advantage to bypass Financial Fair Play rules.

Eddie Howe reacts to failed temporary ban on related-party deals

Since PIF owns Newcastle United, it was thought by many fans that it would be unfair for them as they could simply loan players from the Saudi league. It would help them get many quality players as well as bypass the FFP rules. Due to this, the Premier League was ready to impose a temporary ban on such deals.

A shareholders’ meeting took place where each club voted whether to temporarily ban such deals or not. It will need the consent of 14 clubs in order for the ban to take place. But it only got 12 votes, with 8 clubs rejecting it. This means that Newcastle are free to loan players from their associated clubs in the Saudi League.

But manager Eddie Howe thinks that this does not give his club any advantages. He said in a press conference, “It was a Premier League vote, we’re not the only club involved. I think the majority of clubs own other clubs around the world. It’s not solely on us.” Indeed, many clubs such as Chelsea and Manchester City have associated clubs from whom they loan players.

“Newcastle had a view; we voted our way, as we’re allowed to, and the vote came out on the side it did. We’re very relaxed on it. No advantage in my eyes. We’re the same as every other Premier League club.”

Newcastle United target loan signings

Newcastle United are now ready to strengthen their team in the upcoming January transfer window. The Magpies are just seventh in the Premier League standings, which is not good growth from last season. A major reason is the absence of many of their players, with nine players out through injury and Sandro Tonali being suspended.

As a result, they are also looking to not spend too much money to bring in new players due to FFP rules and will instead look to loan deals.

According to The Times, the club is targeting two players in particular. They are midfielder Kalvin Philips from Manchester City and forward Hugo Ekitike from Paris Saint-Germain.

Kalvin Phillips has not made a significant impact in the Manchester City team and the Citizens are ready to part with him. He will cost a huge price tag, but a loan deal may be possible. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will appreciate his defensive capabilities a lot.

Hugo Ekitike was on the rise for PSG, but has seen a decrease in game time recently. Being a very exciting prospect, PSG may allow him to leave in order to get game time and develop. It will be a good deal for all parties involved.

Newcastle United will play against Chelsea tonight at Saint James Park and will hope for a win to advance in the league. What are your predicitons for the game? Let us know what you think in the comments section.