Sunday 10th August 2008
Exclusive: Toon bid "almost a done deal"
Steve McMahon has said Profitable Group’s commercial tie-up with Newcastle United is "almost a done deal".
By Eugene YS Han (assistant editor – espnstar.com)
“We are not far away from being a strategic partner with Newcastle United,” said the ESPN STAR Sports football pundit when asked about the present interest from Profitable Group in the Barclays Premier League club.
The former Liverpool and England midfielder also confirmed that the main aim of the partnership is to create inroads for the Magpies into Asia.
“We are trying to do a deal with Newcastle to promote the football club in Asia,” explained McMahon.
“And that means sponsorships and it might mean all the things we can do in terms of tours or promotions. We are going to do a lot of things for Newcastle.”
McMahon also explained why Profitable Group picked the Magpies.
“They are a big club outside of the ‘Top Four’ and we believe we can do a lot for them,” he said.
“The Group feels Newcastle have a lot to offer. There is always something happening at Newcastle. Every day, they are always in the news.”
“Even if it is not Newcastle, it will be somebody else.”
McMahon also felt the massive support that Newcastle commands at home will accept the partnership.
“The fans were fine,” said McMahon when asked about the reaction from the St James’ Park faithful.
“All they want is somebody to give the club money to buy players. They don’t care who it is. They just want the club to do better. And doing better involves lots of money.”
This revelation will certainly end the speculation surrounding Anil Ambani and Reliance Communications and their takeover of Newcastle.
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