ASHLEY: SHOW ME THE MONEY

NEWCASTLE owner Mike Ashley will demand to see the colour of money before agreeing to takeover talks.

Ashley (right) has been in charge for 10 years and has assured manager Rafa Benitez that it’s business as usual as the Spaniard prepares for the Toon’s return to the Premier League. Since winning promotion, the Sports Direct billionaire has heard several proposals, especially from the Far East, about a Tyneside takeover but he wil only entertain serious investors who want to improve the club’s standing.

Only if the price is right and the potential buyers have substantial cash to take Newcastle to a higher level will he step aside.