NEWCASTLE TAKEOVER EXCLUSIVE: Insider reveals all on Arthur Blank after Mike Ashley link
NEWCASTLE UNITED will not be bought by Arthur Blank - who is focusing solely on his MLS side Atlanta United for the foreseeable future.
Posted Wednesday, December 05, 2018 by Dailystar.co.uk
The American was rumoured to be the mystery man in talks with Toon owner Mike Ashley, who over the weekend told Sky News he was in the midst of selling the club.
"On background - there is nothing to this story," the source claimed.
"The report is without merit.
"We are all simply focused on winning the MLS Cup."
When asked if a potential bid for Newcastle or any other European outfit was possible after Sunday's MLS Cup final, the insider went on to say: "No, nothing is being pursued.
Newcastle takeover: Arthur Blank was rumoured to be the mystery buyer
Newcastle takeover: Arthur Blank has no interest in buying off Mike Ashley
Newcastle takeover: Arthur Blank owns Atlanta United and Atlanta Falcons
"[Blank's] Focus is squarely on Atlanta United and MLS."
Atlanta are 90 minutes away from lifting the MLS Cup and will take on Portland Timbers in the final this Sunday.
Blank is just one of the potential candidates ready to take Newcastle off Ashley's hands.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea bigwig Peter Kenyon was rumoured to be heading up a consortium interested in the Magpies earlier this season.
Newcastle takeover: Mike Ashley wants the club sold by 2019
Newcastle takeover: Mike Ashley wants the club sold by 2019
Reports have also suggested Turkish billionaires are eyeing up a move for United.
Ashley bought former owner Sir John Hall's 41.6 per cent stake in the club back in 2007.
And speaking to Sky News on Sunday, the Sports Direct tycoon said: "I am hopeful for the Newcastle fans, for the club, for everybody, that I will be able to step aside and we will be able to get an owner in that will please everybody.
"I'd like it to be before the January transfer window.
Newcastle takeover: Rafa Benitez will want backing whoever owns Newcastle in January
"Hopefully we can carry on the good form - just recent good form - and we can get the deal done.
"Talks are at a more progressed stage than they've ever been."
Newcastle take on Everton in the Premier League on Wednesday evening.
Photos
More»
De Bruyne's glamorous Wag stuns in low-cut dress
Tuesday April 23 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Coventry 3-3 Man Utd (2-4 pens)
Monday April 22 2024
Your Say