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Newcastle United takeover: LGBTQ+ fans hope Saudi deal 'a sign for change'

The Saudi Arabia-backed takeover of Newcastle United may help to improve LGBTQ+ rights in the kingdom, a fans group hopes.

United with Pride accepted the state was "one of the least tolerant" in the world over equality, but said the deal could have a "positive influence".

Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah said she hoped it was "a sign for change".

It comes after the Premier League club agreed a £305m deal with a group chaired by the country's ruler.

The Premier League approved the move after receiving "legally binding assurances" that the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is separate to the state and would not control the club.