Shearer joy as Ashley puts Toon up for sale
NEWCASTLE owner Mike Ashley last night put the Premier League club up for sale and is hoping to complete a deal by Christmas.
Ashley’s decade-long reign appears to be entering its final weeks, with the businessman prepared to entertain a deal involving staggered payments if it attracts the right investor.
The 53-year-old paid £134million for the Magpies in 2007, clearing existing debts and securing the club’s financial future at a troubling time. But his tenure has been controversial and includes, including two relegations from the Premier League and frequent discord with the fan base.
An Ashley company statement suggested the developments have been made public due to growing “press speculation”, which ramped up after the appearance of financier Amanda Staveley at Newcastle’s game against Liverpool earlier this month.
It said: “To give an incoming owner the maximum flexibility to make meaningful investment in the club, including in its playing squad, the sale process will give interested parties the opportunity of deferring substantial payments.
“A process will now commence of identifying new ownership that will be capable of delivering the investment and dedication to the club that is necessary.”
Andrew Henderson, a partner at law firm Dentons, is representing Ashley and said: “Our intention at the moment are to see if the club can be brought into new ownership by, potentially, Christmas.”
The announcement was met with joy by two of Newcastle’s favourite sons, with Alan Shearer and Rob Lee both tweeting gifs showing exuberant celebrations.
Shearer’s post, showing the cast of American sitcom Seinfeld dancing, was accompanied by the phrase “Just heard.....”, while Lee’s was captioned “at last”.