As the proposed takeover in the North East draws nearer to completion, the Saudi-led consortium, headhunted by the country’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and backed by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), will surely be looking for a marquee signing in the upcoming summer transfer window to mark a new era at St. James’ Park.
The would-be owners, comprising also of businesswoman Amanda Staveley and the billionaire Reuben brothers, should look no further than former Tottenham Hotspur ace Gareth Bale.
As per ChronicleLive, odds have tumbled on Bale returning to the Premier League this summer, with Newcastle United his most likely destination according to the bookies.
According to the latest odds from Betfair, the Tyneside club are now 4/1 to complete the signing of the 30-year old this summer, with a move to any MLS Team priced at 6/1.
Manchester United have also been linked with Bale, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are 7/1 to capture his signature this summer, while a return to Spurs is 10/1.
The Welsh international does not have to prove himself in the top flight, having scored 43 goals and provided 31 assists in 146 appearances across six seasons (via BBC).
Whilst he may cost the club a fair bit to sign, indeed he is valued at £28.8m by Transfermarkt, the prospective new owners will have plenty of money at their disposable, making the Welshman potentially an affordable target.
Given his history in the game so far, including his excellent record in the English top flight, NUFC’s prospective buyers could certainly do worse than making Bale their marquee signing to bring in the new era.
Geordies, do you think Bale still has what it takes to succeed in the Prem? Comment below!