Lee Charnley breaks silence on Newcastle United takeover after £300m deal collapses

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley and managing director Lee Charnley.

The Saudi Arabia-backed consortium walked away from a proposed £300million deal yesterday over the Premier League’s failure to make a decision. A statement from the group read: "With a deep appreciation for the Newcastle community, and the significance of its football club, we have come to the decision to withdraw our interest in acquiring Newcastle United.”

Charnley has reacted to the news in a statement issued to Sky Sports.

United’s managing director insisted that his focus was now on “supporting Steve Bruce in the transfer market”.

“We acknowledge yesterday’s statement,” said Charnley. “Never say never, but to be clear Mike Ashley is 100% committed to this deal (sale). However, our current focus must now be on supporting Steve Bruce in the transfer market and on the preparations for the new season."