NEWCASTLE have confirmed they are engaged in a legal dispute with the Premier League over the recently stalled takeover of the club.

Owner Mike Ashley indicated his intention to consult his lawyers after a consortium, which included Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben Brothers, withdrew its £350 million offer for the Magpies following a 17-week wait for the governing body to approve the prospective buyers.

Newcastle Consortium Supporters Ltd – a fans’ group –  claimed this week to have been told of the legal action by the Premier League’s lawyers, and the club has now confirmed the move.

In a statement yesterday, the club alleged that the details had been “leaked” by the league and said: “The club understands that these will be matters of great concern to its fans and therefore considers that, in light of the information disclosed by the EPL, it has no choice but to respond and update its fans in response to this coverage.

“The club makes no comment on the substance of the arbitration, but it can confirm that it has issued arbitration proceedings against the EPL.

“It is unclear when those proceedings will be resolved, given the approach of the EPL and its lawyers, Bird & Bird. Nevertheless, the club will continue to use its best efforts to press for a fair, full and timely hearing of its claim.”