Saudi Arabia government official Turki Alalshikh's investment deal into Derby County is reportedly nearing finalisation, potentially as early as next week. Alalshikh, a prominent figure in Saudi Arabia and co-founder of Zuffa, has had a deal on the table with the English football's independent regulator since May.

The proposed investment has drawn criticism from human rights campaigners, including Amnesty International, who view it as a test for the regulator regarding alleged 'sportswashing' by Saudi Arabia. Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, has been linked to efforts to improve the Kingdom's international image through sports.

This development comes as Derby County owner David Clowes seeks investment to accelerate the club's progress towards the Premier League. With the transfer window narrowing, the finalisation of Alalshikh's investment could provide crucial funds for manager John Eustace to strengthen the squad for the upcoming Championship season. The exact structure and amount of the investment remain to be seen.