It seems that the possible Newcastle takeover will linger on for a good amount of time yet, with different reports constantly providing different updates.
The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards has provided his opinion on the latest developments, with speculation arising that the £340m reported asking price could be negotiated due to the impact of the pandemic on Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct.
What we do know for certain is that a bid has been submitted to the Premier League, and the likes of PIF and Amanda Staveley do have the funds to back up their interest.
As a result, the ball is firmly in Ashley’s park, and as we know from previous experience there could still yet be a variety of developments and outcomes.
Will Mike Ashley sell?
Yes
No
Edwards was assured in his view on the matter, however, and moved focus away from Ashley by suggesting it is up to the interested parties to get a deal across the line.
On Twitter he said:
“Worth stressing if those buying think they can get Mike Ashley to accept a low bid because he is in financial trouble due to SD share price falling they are dreaming. If they haven’t matched the asking price after “a year” of talking why?”
While we may also rush to blame Ashley if this deal falls through, Edwards is right to criticise the lack of action from the consortium.
If they have the kind of money that has been reported then they shouldn’t be bothered by a few million pounds, and instead ensure that Ashley is made an offer too good to refuse.
There could be complications with issues like the advertising of Sports Direct at St. James’ Park, with the owner notoriously difficult to negotiate with, which makes a possible struggle over the club’s asking price even more pointless and time-consuming.