Why Amanda Staveley might go it alone at Newcastle

The financier has had an offer for the club, worth up to £300million, rejected by owner Mike Ashley.

Staveley’s expected to return with an improved bid for the club, which was put up for sale by Ashley last month.

The Financial Times report that Staveley has lined up investors from Dubai, where she is based, and Saudi Arabia.

However, it adds that PCP could finance a smaller deal without the need for outsider backers.

Ashley – who bought Newcastle a decade ago for £134million – is prepared to accept staggered payments if the overall price is right.

Staveley’s initial offer reportedly takes account of the threat of relegation and an ongoing tax investigation into the club.

United manager Rafa Benitez – whose side have lost their last four games – has insisted that the takeover talks are not a distraction to him and his players.

“I’m quite pragmatic,” said Benitez.

“What can I do? Nothing. So what I have to do is be sure my team’s focused and concentrating on the football.

“I don’t talk to players about that (takeover), because we do not have the information.

“I understand why I am being asked about it, but I don’t have any answers.