Saudi GAC have clarified their position on beIN Sports' license. They confirm it has not to date been restored and no "direct engagement" has taken place between themselves & beIN on the subject. But there is also some good news...

GAC admit they are nonetheless "reviewing" the revoked license with a view to what they call "Gulf solidarity". GAC also confirm existing beIN subscriptions can be "aired at public screenings without consequence." This potentially explains why beIN seems more visible.

beIN satellite feed was never turned off so beIN has actually been a presence in Saudi during the blockade. beIN's website still remains blocked and they can't send over new boxes to sell, run a call centre or have staff in KSA.

beIN or EPL won't be pacified, though, just cause more Saudis can watch football (off old boxes). But what's clear is GAC have somewhat softened stance without U-turning entirely. If they just give beIN back license their credibility takes a hit so still likely to happen quietly.

GAC also point out beIN are yet to pay a 2m GBP fine and that they can't comment on whether the situation may change if "other cases" (i.e. beoutQ damages arbitration) are dropped.

In standing by claim that beIN "breeched commercial law" at 2016 Euros (something beIN call "ludicrous") GAC say: "We are reviewing a provisional license allowing beIN Sports' to broadcast & make sales in KSA... subject to an acknowledgement of commercial breeches & concessions."

"No final determination has been made and the GAC can provide no guarantees at this time other than to express a desire for Gulf Solidarity."

This all implies, if GAC do provide beIN with a license again it will come with certain stipulations and almost be issued under probation. To determine (& agree upon) any 'terms' GAC clearly have to talk to beIN. beIN totally in dark still & say "nothing material" has changed.

So what this means is:
1) GAC admit they have not restored beIN yet
2) GAC admit they are reviewing the situation but haven't engaged directly with beIN. This is essential to the process
3) Unless other legal cases dropped, getting beIN fully/legally back will be a slow process

What this means for the #NUFC takeover is:
1) beIN's seemingly more visible presence carries no weight yet & won't until beIN are told they are back
2) But GAC are at least confirming they will relook at license situation. That part is very positive even if beIN remain in dark

The fact GAC are talking about "Gulf solidarity" certainly suggests we may see some movement, but until parties engage, this (like a lot of #NUFC takeover itself) is unlikely to happen very quickly (perhaps by the off-season).

The logical view was if beIN returns it might help speed up takeover, but actually it could be a takeover has to happen (via an assist from the club case) in order to speed up beIN's return. Still a lot in air, but that's GAC's current position & they are clearly deliberating.