Saudi Arabian billionaire in Derby County talks while Preston North End clarity craved

Saudi Arabian billionaire Turki Alashikh is reportedly in advanced investment talks with Derby County.

The Saudi government official - now with an established reputation in the world of Boxing - has been linked with Bristol City and Millwall before. However, it is now Derby who are said to have held ‘detailed’ discussions with Alashikh over potential investment.

It has been reported that the new Independent Football Regulator is now carrying out necessary checks. Rams owner David Clowes has spoken with Alashikh, with Derby seeking added financial support.

A local businessman, Clowes saved the club from liquidation four summers ago but is said to be open to selling up to 80 per cent of his shareholding. Alashikh has owned Pyramids FC and Almeria, previously.

The Rams have been back in the Championship for two years and finished eighth last season, under John Eustace. Their Premier League ambitions would be ‘seriously enhanced’ in the view of Derbyshire Live, should Alashikh agree a deal.

North End news awaited

In late January, Preston North End’s talks with businessman Amr Zedan were confirmed by chairman Ian Penrose. Zedan then attended a home match and has continued to engage with the club’s content on social media.

But, there has been no more official communication on the matter since. In early February, CEO Peter Ridsdale said a certain threshold had to be passed before getting into any due diligence process.

Last month, journalist Alan Nixon reported that Zedan is in advanced talks with the Deepdale club. The US-Saudi born man would need to pass the Independent Football Regulator’s new statutory test.