Fortunately for Newcastle United, it looks like they will avoid a points deduction.
But that was a distinct possibility, as they went in search of a solution to their PSR nightmare before the end of June 30th.
Last month passed with two players departing St James’ Park. Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson were sold, with the two youngsters bringing in almost £70million.
On top of that, Newcastle received £10million in compensation from Manchester United for Dan Ashworth.
It was last-gasp, but it looks like Newcastle were able to do enough to comply with profit and sustainability. It was close though, and hopefully the club will come out and address the fans to provide a bit of transparency.
Newcastle even considered selling Anthony Gordon
That needs to happen, as it was a nervy end to June. There appeared to be a sense of panic inside St James’ Park, as they looked at every possible avenue to bring in the funds that were required.
That included selling a star player like Anthony Gordon, with Liverpool approached about a possible deal. However, they felt he was too expensive at more than £80million.
Given Gordon’s importance, some fans would argue that taking a points deduction – possibly as many as 10 – would be worth it if it meant keeping the 23-year-old. However, that was not the view in Saudi Arabia.
PIF did not want Newcastle to receive a points deduction
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle believed that selling a player like Gordon was a better solution than failing to comply with PSR and suffering a points deduction.
They add that PIF would have sanctioned Gordon’s departure, if it had been required. The Daily Mail state that those in Saudi Arabia did not want to be embarrassed by receiving a penalty for the club’s financial failings.
Newcastle can now start afresh
There was a real desire at Newcastle United to comply with PSR. That is understandable, but it makes it all the more baffling that they left it to the last minute to get themselves in a positive financial position.
It has been an absolute mess, and that created chaos on Tyneside during the final days of June.
Fortunately they have passed, and Newcastle found a way. They should now comply with PSR, and they have done it without having to sell one of their major stars.
While it is sad to see Anderson and Minteh depart, their exits are more palatable than if someone like Gordon, Alexander Isak or Bruno Guimaraes had waved goodbye to St James’ Park.
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