Simon Jordan fumes after Newcastle United hit by ‘cartel’ transfer flex
Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan has launched a scathing critique of the Premier League’s financial regulations, arguing that Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) have effectively “killed the competitiveness” of English football.
His comments come as Newcastle United find themselves hamstrung in the transfer market despite their remarkable rise under Saudi-backed ownership, while established elite clubs continue to flex their financial muscle.
Newcastle’s recent success—qualifying for the Champions League twice in three seasons—has disrupted the traditional hierarchy, but Jordan insists the current financial framework prevents them from truly challenging the dominance of Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool.
“The Premier League’s original appeal was that it was open for business,” Jordan fumed on talkSPORT. “Now, the rules have shifted to protect those already at the top. Newcastle have every right to follow the same path as Chelsea and Manchester City—investing heavily to build a competitive squad. But PSR hasn’t curbed player wages or transfer fees as intended. Instead, it’s just ensured the usual suspects remain untouchable.”
The financial disparity is stark. While Newcastle’s revenue continues to grow, it still lags far behind the Premier League’s established giants. Jordan highlighted the near-impossible task for clubs like Nottingham Forest to bridge that gap, asking: “How can Forest realistically increase their turnover to £600 million to compete? They can’t. The system is rigged in favor of those already at the top.”
Newcastle’s restrained activity in the market underscores Jordan’s argument. The Magpies have not made a major signing in nearly two years—Lewis Hall’s permanent arrival last summer was merely the formalization of an existing loan deal. Meanwhile, their rivals have wasted no time strengthening their squads.
Liverpool have already secured deals for Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, with Giorgi Mamardashvili also set to arrive. Manchester City have added Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait-Nouri to their ranks.
Manchester United triggered Matheus Cunha’s release clause, while Arsenal are poised to announce the signing of Martin Zubimendi.
Chelsea, in particular, have been aggressive, beating Newcastle to top targets like Joao Pedro and Liam Delap while closing in on Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens. The Blues’ relentless spending power highlights the growing divide between clubs operating under different financial realities.
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Despite the challenges, Eddie Howe has proven adept at maximizing resources, guiding Newcastle to overachieve against wealthier opponents. But sustaining that success becomes increasingly difficult when rivals can outspend them at will.
Jordan’s frustration reflects a broader concern about the Premier League’s direction. If financial regulations continue to entrench the status quo, the competition risks becoming predictable—a far cry from the unpredictable, meritocratic league that once captivated global audiences.
“Newcastle’s rise should have been a feel-good story for the Premier League,” Jordan argued. “Instead, the system is designed to keep them in their place. If the league truly values competition, these rules need urgent reform.”
With the transfer window still open, Newcastle may yet make strategic moves. But unless the financial landscape shifts, their ambitions of joining England’s elite on a permanent basis could remain frustratingly out of reach.