Sunderland legend Kevin Phillips is not surprised at claims Premier League clubs are trying to block Newcastle United’s impending takeover – but believes it is purely a ‘case of sour grapes’.

The Magpies look set to be bought by a Saudi Arabian-led consortium, backed by Amanda Staveley and the Reuben Brothers, after a £300m deal was struck with Mike Ashley.

Premier League checks remain ongoing over the deal, with piracy allegations and the ongoing situation in the country delaying the process.

Indeed, there were even reports earlier this week that more than half of the top flight wanted to see a deal blocked.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (L) and Saudi Deputy Defence Minister Khalid Bin Salman. | Getty Images

placeholder image — Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (L) and Saudi Deputy Defence Minister Khalid Bin Salman. | Getty Images

Our sister title, the Shields Gazette, have revealed that the buying side still have no concerns over a deal being completed and expect things to be signed-off in the near future.

So too does Phillips, who believes that the reports this week come purely from jealousy.

He told Football Insider: “Of course the clubs can express their concerns but I do not understand how they can have an actual input or actually influence the Premier League’s decision.

“The powers that be are there to do all their due diligence and tests – they will do everything. No stone will be left unturned because we have seen it happen before when somebody has taken over a club and it has not turned out well. They will have learned from that.

“Clubs will express their concerns but it is for the governing body to decide.

“No doubt there will be a bit of jealousy in there. A case of sour grapes.”