Shearer waits on takeover talks
ALAN Shearer was today waiting to see if the latest twist in the saga of Newcastle United's sale has any impact on his hope of becoming manager.
The takeover of the club appeared to move a step closer after a group of Asian businessmen were shown around the club yesterday.
A delegation of Malaysian businessmen were given a tour of the club's facilities before returning to London to continue discussions.
Managing director Derek Llambias showed the group around the state-of-the-art training complex at Benton after the prospective buyers were whisked onto Tyneside by helicopter.
There was no official confirmation of the story, but with all interested parties signing non-disclosure agreements, that comes as no surprise.
But sources close to the club were not denying it either, and there is a growing feeling that an end to a saga which has rumbled on for more than a month could be in sight.
The identity of the group remains unknown, as do those of most of the consortia who have expressed a serious interest in buying the club.
Current owner Mike Ashley and the people closest to the ongoing negotiations were optimistic earlier this week that significant progress could be made soon, and while there is still much ground to be covered, it appears things are now moving more rapidly.
Indeed, there is a feeling a deal could be struck within days, and the decisive move could be made next week.
A takeover would be effectively complete when the prospective buyer signed a sales purchase agreement, and they could then get on with the business of appointing a manager and starting to re-shape the playing squad.
But it remains to be seen whether Shearer will be the preferred choice as boss if the Malaysians complete a buy-out.
Shearer – who has been forced to wait, as Ashley refused to appoint a manager in case it jeopardised any takeover – is desperate to get started on trying to guide Newcastle back into the top flight.
But coach Chris Hughton was left to take charge of pre-season training when the players reported back on Wednesday.
At least four consortia have entered into detailed discussions, with an American-based group among the most advanced, while former chairman Freddy Shepherd has also been heavily involved.
However, Seymour Pierce, the investment bank engaged to handle the sale, has not put any deadline on bids.
It is not known whether the Malaysian delegation went through Seymour Pierce, or to Ashley direct.
Ashley has put a 100m price tag on the club, and has insisted he will sell to the first consortium to come up with the cash.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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