Mike Ashley's business power play highlights Newcastle United takeover intentions

Ashley’s attempts to sell the Magpies to PIF, PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben Brothers hit the buffers when the Premier League owners and directors test forced the pull out of Saudi finance from the deal.

Frustrated Ashley, who is pondering legal action, remains ‘100% committed’ to getting the £300 million sale through – and is thought to be far from happy at the length of time the deal has taken to reach this point.

The United owner did not expect to have his name above the door at St James’s Park in May, never mind into the autumn months, which is looking increasingly likely.

And looking at Ashley’s recent business, it’s clear to see why he wanted out so swiftly – to spread the cash around his ailing empire, and increase his holdings elsewhere.

Ashley’s Fraser Group have today confirmed their purchase of 40 leisure clubs and 31 shops formerly owned by high-street sportswear rival Dave Whelan.

The deal totals £37 million and has managed to safeguard 922 jobs, in the short-term at least.

DW Sports retailers and gyms collapsed in early August due to the pressures of the coronavirus lockdown on income streams.

The transaction, however, does not include the name of the business, founded by former Wigan Athletic owner Whelan.

On the takeover front things have gone quiet on Tyneside, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. Talks remain on-going in the background and it is unlikely the buying consortium will leak any further progress in light of the damage done by previous leaks during the process.

Meanwhile, United look set to miss out on Arsenal man Ainsley Maitland-Niles.

United were linked with a £20 million move for the Gunners youngster, but Wolves are on the verge of tying up the deal this week.