Saudi boxing promoter Turki Alalshikh could soon invest in Derby County.
Talks have been held between the entrepreneur and club officials – and the government’s independent regulator is now exploring whether such a deal would be permitted.
Alalshikh is known to most for turning the country into a major destination for elite boxing bouts.
He chairs the General Entertainment Authority within the Saudi government and checks will be carried out to ensure there would be no problems caused by the fact that Saudi’s Public Investment Fund owns Premier League Newcastle United.
In recent times Alalshikh has followed a number of social media accounts linked to the Rams, including the club’s official account.
The 44-year-old has previously been linked with Millwall and Bristol City. Derby, the EFL and the IFR all declined to comment.
Saudi boxing promoter Turki Alalshikh is in talks over a shock investment at Derby County
The Rams, who are managed by John Eustace, came eighth in the Championship this season
However, discussions have already taken place between Alalshikh and Derby owner David Clowes.
Should the IFR give the green light those talks can progress further.
Clowes brought Derby out of administration in 2022, spending £55m in the process.
He is known to be seeking external investment and, according to the Daily Telegraph, is open to selling up to 80 per cent in the club.
Alalshikh has previously owned clubs in Egypt and Spain.
Derby finished eighth this season and ended four points short of the play-offs.
Any investment would be aimed at pushing them into the Premier League.
The IFR’s owners and directors test went live earlier this month, and Alalshikh would be subject to its various checks.
