What a time to be alive for Newcastle United supporters. With the season over, Toon fans can toast arguably the club’s greatest campaign for a century and look ahead to a transformative summer on Tyneside.
The Carabao Cup is gleaming in the trophy cabinet and Champions League nights are returning to St James’ Park - does it get any better than this. Well, the Public Investment Fund certainly hope so as they did not steamroll into English football to take part.
It is all about taking over at PIF headquarters and Newcastle’s balance sheet is in the best nick since the early days of the Saudi-backed era. No longer gripped by the PSR shackles, the Magpies can spend again - with agents across Europe on red alert.
In a bygone era, Newcastle would have enjoyed a bottomless pit akin to Chelsea and Manchester City from yesteryear. But football governance means PIF must be above board with every transaction - preventing them from handing Eddie Howe a blank chequebook.
However, every penny possible that can be legitimately spent will be - teeing up a summer of excitement at Newcastle. Take a peek at how PIF’s wealth compares to the rest of the Premier League - including bitter rivals and newly-promoted Sunderland.
Net worth: £478billion
1. Newcastle United - Saudi Public Investment Fund, RB Sports & Media
Net worth: £478billion | 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