Finances have been pushed to the forefront of football in recent days following the Premier League’s Associated Party Transaction ruling. Unfortunately for Newcastle United, top-flight clubs voted to introduce measures that will see future sponsorships scrutinised.
Any deals struck between “closely associated parties” must be of “fair market value” despite an arbitration panel deeming these plans “unlawful” last month. Newcastle, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest sided with Manchester City in their losing battle against the Premier League.
FFP/PSR restrictions have been a hot topic since Everton and Forest were deducted points last season. Newcastle being hamstrung by the constraints - despite having owners worth an estimated £700billion - has also made the issue prevalent.
But what if the Magpies were let off the leash? This is how deep their pockets would be compared to rival Premier League clubs.
Net worth: £742billion
1. Newcastle United - The Public Investment Fund, Reuben Brothers
Net worth: £742billion | Getty Images
Net worth: £19.2billion
2. Manchester United - The Glazer family, Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Net worth: £19.2billion | Getty Images
Net worth: £13.8billion
3. Aston Villa - Wes Edens, Nassef Sawiris
Net worth: £13.8billion | Getty Images
Net worth: £12.9billion
4. Manchester City - Abu Dhabi Group, Silver Lake
Net worth: £12.9billion | AFP via Getty Images