"The serious questions surrounding Saudi involvement in sport anywhere in the world are just as relevant here," Jakens said.
"Al-Sheikh is not a private businessman. He is the chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority."
Al-Sheikh has previously held takeover discussions with Bristol City and explored investment opportunities at Southampton and Millwall.
His interest in Derby County raises questions regarding multi-club ownership due to his existing connections with Newcastle United's financial backers.
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Premier League regulations strictly forbid any individual or entity from directly or indirectly influencing the management or administration of more than one league club.
Current Rams owner David Clowes rescued the club from administration in 2022. He has actively sought fresh investment since 2024 and remains open to selling an 80% stake.
The potential takeover has deeply divided the Derby County fanbase between financial ambition and ethical considerations.
"Many are excited by the billions that potentially could be invested, and then there are the human rights and all the other issues that are going on.
Then there will be people in the middle, and it will make a lot of people uncomfortable," a fan named Webster said.
Al-Sheikh's Sporting Background
Al-Sheikh has become a major figure in boxing by hosting high-profile undisputed world title fights in Saudi Arabia, including bouts involving Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.
His previous venture in football occurred in 2018 when he purchased Egyptian side Al Assiouty Sport, rebranded it as Pyramids FC, and relocated it to Cairo before selling it in 2019.
