Premier League demanded proof Chelsea are not owned by Saudi Arabia

A number of Chelsea first-team players are set to move to the Middle East

In recent months, Saudi Arabia have been able to attract some of the biggest names in world football including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté.

Multiple reports have also suggested that a number of other Chelsea players are set to follow suit, with Hakim Ziyech, Kalidou Koulibaly and Edouard Mendy all allegedly on the cusp of securing moves to the Middle East.

But according to The Telegraph, the number of Chelsea players rumoured to be heading to Saudi Arabia has become a cause for concern and the Premier League bosses have asked for evidence to show that the PIF had no role to play in Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s purchase of the club last year.

They added that the two-time European champions have since provided evidence which the league are satisfied with.

Saudi Arabia’s PIF already have an 80 per cent majority stake in Newcastle United after purchasing the club from Mike Ashley in 2021.

Since buying the club, Eddie Howe's side have been able to qualify for the Champions League in their first full season under new ownership, all while attracting some big names to the north east.

Kieran Tripper, Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak are some of the names who have arrived at St James' Park and reports have suggested that AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali could be the first major signing of the summer for the Magpies.

Related links:

• Gary Neville calls for Premier League to put an instant halt on Saudi Arabia transfers
• Steven Gerrard turns down offer to manage in Saudi Arabia
• Newcastle face fresh sportswashing allegations over shirt sponsor