Soccer-Ashley says he rejected bigger Newcastle bid before Saudi-led takeover

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - FA Cup Fourth Round Replay - Oxford United v Newcastle United - Kassam Stadium, Oxford, Britain - February 4, 2020 Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley before the match REUTERS/David Klein

(Reuters) - Outgoing Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley said he had rejected a higher bid than the one that led to the Premier League club being taken over by a Saudi Arabia-led group on Thursday, but believed he had acted in the best interests of the club.

Newcastle were bought by a group comprising Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media, ending years of uncertainty to the delight of fans.