It’s been over well over a year since PCP Partners, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and the Reuben brothers agreed to buy the Magpies for £300million before the EPL refused to approve the deal.
But this takeover speculation started well before the Saudi-bid when Ashley again put the club up for sale in October 2017.
From the first beginnings to the very latest – scroll and click through the pages to see our takeover timeline:
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
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. Photo: Jan Kruger