But, despite all of the rumour and conjecture, claims and counter-claims, statements and radio silence from Newcastle United, Sports Direct tycoon Mike Ashley remains the owner at St James’s Park.
Sheikh Khaled, the Bin Zayed Group, some mystery Chinese, some more mystery Americans, GACP Sports, Peter Kenyon and Joseph DaGrosa – here’s every development in a summer that promised change and prosperity for United, but delivered nothing more than the status quo, with a dialling down of quality in the dugout, and on the pitch, as well as dwindling numbers on the terraces.
17. Thursday, October 3 - A step closer?
GACP Sports Ltd form two new companies called ‘GACP Newcastle Management LLP’ and ‘GACP Newcastle Partners LLP’. The former was launched on September 27, 2019 with the latter set-up on October 1, 2019. Photo: ALAIN JOCARD
18. October 22 - Mexican deal breaker?
Alejandro Irarragorri was in London around the time of a claimed meeting between Mike Ashley and two Mexican businessman. The Athletic claim the Sports Direct Tycoon was rude and a deal was not close. Could talks be rekindled? Photo: Manuel Guadarrama
19. November 11, 2019 - Irarragorri interest confirmed
Alejandro Irarragorri and his Orlegi Sports group are reportedly ‘confident’ of sealing a deal for the club having held talks with Mike Ashley in October - this according to the Athletic. Sounds like this one is far from dead... Photo: Manuel Guadarrama