Staveley and Ghodoussi Eye West Ham Takeover
Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi, the financiers who helped architect the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle United in 2021, are now exploring a purchase of another Premier League club. According to the Mail on Sunday, the pair are considering a deal to buy West Ham United.
Staveley and Ghodoussi exited their roles at Newcastle last year and have been seeking a route back into English football’s top flight. West Ham, with its London location, large fanbase, and relatively stable financial footing, represents an attractive target. The club is currently jointly owned by David Sullivan and the estate of the late David Gold, with Sullivan holding the largest share.
It is not yet clear how advanced any discussions are or whether Sullivan is willing to sell. The Hammers have not commented on the speculation. Staveley’s previous involvement in the high-profile Newcastle sale—where she brokered the £300m deal that brought Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund to St James’ Park—suggests she has the credentials to assemble a similarly ambitious bid for the East London club.
“Former Newcastle co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi are looking at a deal to buy West Ham,” the Mail on Sunday reported.
World Cup: Handshake Dilemma for England
Ahead of England’s Group E clash with Ghana in Boston on Tuesday, the FA will not issue a team instruction on whether to shake the hand of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey during pre-match protocols. The Sunday Times reports that the decision will be left to the discretion of each England player.
The controversy stems from off-field issues that have surrounded Partey, with some members of the England squad reportedly uncomfortable with the customary handshake. Manager Gareth Southgate has not publicly addressed the matter, but it is understood that no formal boycott has been discussed. The match, which takes place at Gillette Stadium, is already clouded by the wider context of the tournament’s host nation.
Saka Doubt for Three Lions
Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start against Ghana after missing England training, according to the Sunday Telegraph. The Arsenal winger is nursing a minor knock, and with England already through to the knockout stages, the medical staff are expected to err on the side of caution. Saka has been one of England’s standout performers at the tournament, and his absence would be a blow to Southgate’s attack.
Norway’s Culinary Caution
Norway’s football federation has taken extraordinary steps to keep its players on a familiar diet during the World Cup. The Sun on Sunday reveals that over 400 kilograms of fish and cheese have been imported to the team’s US base, so the squad does not have to rely on American food. Norway, competing in their first World Cup since 1998, have left nothing to chance as they bid to progress from Group D.
Doku’s Family Commitment Sparks Debate
Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has faced criticism after stating his intention to leave the squad to attend the birth of his first child. The Athletic reports that Doku’s decision has divided opinion, with some arguing that family must take priority while others insist he should remain with the team during a major tournament. Belgium are still in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup and will need Doku’s pace and creativity if they are to advance.
Quick Facts
West Ham takeover interest: Staveley and Ghodoussi are exploring a deal.
England handshake decision: Players will choose individually on Partey.
Saka status: Unlikely to start vs Ghana due to injury.
Norway food import: 400kg of fish and cheese shipped to the US.
Doku absence: Winger plans to attend child’s birth, drawing criticism.