English Premier League loses bid to ban loans between associated clubs

LONDON  — The Premier League has failed in a bid to ban loan moves between associated clubs during the January transfer window, according to reports.

It was reported the Premier League wanted to stop teams like Newcastle loaning a player from another club owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, AFP reported.

Newcastle have been linked with a loan swoop for midfielder Ruben Neves, who currently plays for Saudi club Al-Hilal.
Neves would fill the void in Newcastle’s team left by Sandro Tonali following the Italian’s 10-month ban for breaking rules on gambling.

The Premier League needed 14 out of 20 clubs to vote for the ban at a shareholders’ meeting in London.

But it is believed the vote only finished 13-7 in favourof a ban, leaving Newcastle free to make a January loan move for Neves.

PIF owns 80 per cent of Newcastle and also took over Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad in June.

Asked in November whether he would consider signing players based in the Gulf State, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said he was “open to signing anyone if they are good enough”.

Treble winners Manchester City would be able to loan players from other clubs owned by the City Football Group.

In another blow to the Premier League, the clubs were unable to approve the terms of the so-called ‘New Deal’, a £900 million settlement between it and clubs in the English Football League.

The Premier League had hoped to confirm the package at yesterday’s meeting, but it is understood no vote took place.

Despite a three-hour discussion there remains a sticking point surrounding new cost control measures for both Premier League and EFL clubs.

The Premier League wants the matter resolved before the new independent regulator in English football is put in place.