NEWCASTLE’S proposed takeover by Saudi interests has been slammed by human-rights campaigners, who have urged the club to reject the £300 million bid.

Current owner Mike Ashley has openly wanted to rid himself of the club and looks to have finally got his wish, with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, close to buying the Premier League club. 

Ashley, who has made his billions exploiting workers at his Sports Direct sports-shop chain, and Newcastle have yet to confirm reports that the deal is close.