Bournemouth have been handed a takeover boost before their Premier League clash against Newcastle United. News broke late on Thursday that Cherries owner Maxim Demin is set to sell 100% of the club to US billionaire William Foley.
The American earned his fortune in financial services and already owns NHL franchise Vegas Golden Knights. Ironically, news of another US-backed owner entering the top flight comes days after criticism was levelled towards Chelsea chief Todd Boehly.
Proposals to revamp the sport with “north vs south” all-star games were condemned by football supporters. Manchester United legend Gary Neville blasted American ownership as “damaging” to the English game.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe's 'entertaining' Bournemouth success and how Newcastle United are now replicating it
However, ahead of their trip to St James’ Park, Bournemouth will be buoyed by news of their prospective takeover. Foley is understood to be in “advanced talks” to buy the South Coast outfit and a deal could be completed before the World Cup.
Interim manager Gary O’Neill denied knowing any inside information on the deal and insisted his focus is fully on the task ahead. He said pre-match: “Nothing at all (whether he knows about the takeover). Obviously, I'm not involved in any sort of discussions like that.
“I've been working hard on the grass. Takeovers and discussions of that level are a long way from my mind and what I'm focused on at the moment, which is Newcastle. It is going to be a big test.
“I haven't considered anything about takeovers, discussions upstairs, or my position. I know it’s going to be boring for you guys but every minute of my day is taken up by how we go about Newcastle.”
O’Neill also praised the Magpies and believes Eddie Howe’s men were unlucky against Crystal Palace last time out. “They press, they make it difficult for you,” he added. “They've signed good players, they're well organised. I think they're a really good outfit.
“They probably should have won the Palace game. The Manchester City game was a strange one, but a fantastic performance against a top side. They'll have felt unlucky at Liverpool, probably. They're a good side mainly.
“They're very physical. They've got good pace, good legs, midfield and top line. They're a good side. So they'll ask big questions of everyone that goes there, I'm sure.”
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