Sports Direct tycoon Mike Ashley remains the owner at St James’s Park, for now at least, but today has seen a significant development with new documents related to the takeover lodged at Companies House.
Here’s how the last year has played out on the takeover front, including the latest Saudi developments.
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. | Getty Images 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? | Getty Images 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... | Getty Images Photo: Manuel Guadarrama
20. Tuesday, January 14 - He's BACK!
Mike Ashley returns to St James's Park for the first time in around 10 months to watch United's 4-1 FA Cup demolition of Rochdale. He meets Steve Bruce at a Tyneside hotel the following morning. Transfer plans are thrashed out. Sounds like Ashley is in this for the long-haul. | Getty Images Photo: Jan Kruger