Kieran Maguire issues ‘£150m’ reveal as ‘transformative’ Newcastle United development on cards
Champions League qualification would be “transformative” for Newcastle United and could generate as much as £150million across a single season.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Magpies’ increasingly realistic chances of finishing in the Premier League top four.
Eddie Howe’s 3rd-placed side are now 12 league matches undefeated following last Saturday’s (31 December) 0-0 draw with Leeds United.
As quoted by BBC Sport ahead of the clash at St James’ Park, the manager responded “I won’t say we can’t [win the title]” when asked if he thought Newcastle were serious contenders.
The Tynesiders are the richest club on the planet but Financial Fair Play restrictions mean they must unlock new revenue streams before they are able to harness their Saudi owners’ near-limitless wealth.
Maguire explained how Champions League qualification would do exactly that.
“Newcastle generated £153m in revenue in 2019-20 and £140m in 2020-21,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“Both of those years were impacted by Covid. We have seen clubs such as Liverpool and Real Madrid earn £150m in a single season from a successful Champions League campaign.
“While part of that is due to the 10-year Uefa coefficient, there is no doubt that Newcastle are now genuine contenders, and it would be transformative for them.
“If they do qualify for the Champions League, that means they move into a whole new sphere in terms of their appeal to sponsors.
“It also gives them more appeal in terms of attracting players who want to display their wares on the biggest stages.
“There is no doubt that the Champions League attracts a huge amount of potential.“
In other news, door opens for Newcastle United to sign Christian Pulisic after Chelsea signing development