Koukash Reveals Newcastle Knights Ownership Interest

Newcastle Knights may be soon under new ownership after Salford Red Devils chairman Marwan Koukash revealed his interest in purchasing the National Rugby League (NRL) team.

Koukash saved Salford from financial ruin in 2013 and now he looks set to repeat the feat in the NRL with the Knights.

The 55-year-old former Palestinian refugee, who earned his fortune after setting up EuroMaTech, confirmed on Twitter that tentative takeover talks have taken place.

“I would confirm that there has been some contact with an NRL team but it is very early days,” Koukash tweeted.

“My absolute focus remains on the Red Devils.”

The Australian club were left in a precarious financial position after billionaire owner Nathan Tinkler relinquished ownership of the club in May.

The NRL took over the Knights in June and owns 80 per cent of the club under the new model, with the Members Club owning the remaining 20 per cent.

The NRL said it would be open to talks with Koukash.

“We have invested heavily in transferring control of the Knights’ ownership and now our focus is on bedding down the business,” a spokesman said.

“The NRL has indicated that, at some point in the future, we will entertain a sale to a long-term owner.

“At that time, we will need to be satisfied that any new ownership brings all the right values for the club, the community and the game.”