EPL clubs show interest in Jets: Tinkler

An English Premier League club has emerged as a possible buyer for the Newcastle Jets, the A-League franchise’s owner Nathan Tinkler has revealed.

Tinkler, who announced on Friday his intention to sell the Jets, said discussions with EPL clubs about acquiring the Newcastle licence had already been held.

“We’re talking to a number of (English) Premier League clubs and European soccer clubs about getting involved there and have been for a little while,” Tinkler told Sky Sports Radio.

“I guess those negotiations have been going on in the background and I’d like to get those concluded so hence we’ve gone public with the decision to sell.”

Tinkler says Manchester City’s $11 million takeover of Melbourne Heart is an ownership model that could become more common among A-League clubs.

“I think (for) anybody who owns an A-League club or supports an A-League club,” that’s the future,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of soccer talent in this country and (overseas ownership is) the best agreement, I think.

“What it costs to run an A-League club is really just a (player) transfer fee for these guys at the end of the day.

“If that can leave the Jets in a better spot by having an owner like that I think that’s a win for the community and everyone involved.”

Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby claimed it was business as usual for the football department.

“Until the change of ownership is complete, we will continue to execute our plans in preparation for the 2014-15 season,” he said in the statement.

The Football Federation of Australia (FFA) said in a statement on Friday they continued to have positive dialogue with the Jets regarding operational matters.

“FFA is comfortable with the Newcastle Jets’ plans for the Hyundai A-League 2014-15 season and beyond,” the statement said.

Tinkler’s decision to part company with the Jets comes after he walked away from NRL club, the Newcastle Knights, in May.

It also follows Thursday’s announcement that he is quitting thoroughbred racing with his Patinack Farm assets to be auctioned to settle a reported $40 million debt to retail king Gerry Harvey.

Tinkler’s 560 thoroughbreds will go under the hammer during a dispersal sale held by Harvey’s bloodstock company, Magic Millions, late next month.