Takeover on in Toon

NEWCASTLE’S takeover by financier Amanda Staveley’s Middle-east backed PCP partners group is back on.

There have been constructive talks between Toon owner Mike Ashley’s representatives and Staveley over the past few weeks.

Ashley ended all discussions with the group in January accusing them of a publicity stunt when they failed to come anywhere near his £350million asking price.

But now with Premier League security looking likely, PCP are ready to increase their bid closer to Ashley’s valuation of the club he bought 11 years ago. Staveley’s group are committed to backing boss Rafa Benitez.