Newcastle retail store closure reportedly has nothing to do with Saudi takeover

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According to the Chronicle, Newcastle’s club shop is closing because of the incoming kit supplier, not incoming owners.

Reports emerged on Tuesday night that Mike Ashley would be closing the retail store, with the Daily Mail stating it was one of the conditions of the Saudi-led takeover.

However, those claims have been refuted on Wednesday morning.

The Chronicle claim that Castore want to run the store – the kit supplier who are expected to become the club’s new sponsor.

The report states this decision is not an indication of progress in the prolonged takeover saga.

Castore are set to replace Puma as Newcastle’s kit provider in a £5million deal.

They are a relatively new brand, best known for working with Rangers and Andy Murray.

However, they are reportedly set to produce Newcastle’s new kits next season, as well as Premier League rivals Wolves.

The club shop at St James’ Park will no longer be run by Sports Direct, with all members of staff sadly made redundant.

It is another disappointing move by the Newcastle owner, just days after non-essential shops re-opened.

The Daily Mail’s report that stated the decision was down to potential new owners seemed strange. There is still no guarantee that they will be able to buy the club.

Ashley is currently in a legal battle with the Premier League. However, an arbitration result is not expected until after the season.

But whether or not the club changes hands, it seems all but certain that Castore will be the new kit supplier.

And as the Chronicle state, that is why the club shop is closing, not because of the takeover.