Staveley's 'offer' to Chris Mort revealed & Saudi verdict arrives from ex-FA chief - The Times
Some interesting claims have emerged from The Times today on a seemingly imminent Saudi-backed takeover at St James' Park.
Firstly, their man in the North-East Martin Hardy claims that former NUFC Chairman Chris Mort had been offered the chance to return - but rejected Amanda Staveley's proposal to replace Lee Charnley as our new chief executive.
Back in January, The Athletic actually revealed that Mort - who left his post on Tyneside in 2008 - was leading the negotiations with Mike Ashley’s people to try and complete a deal on behalf of this Saudi backed bid, however it seems he won't be returning on a full-time basis.
Then to the other big claim in The Times' piece, revealing what former FA Chairman Grey Dyke makes of recent complaints towards a Saudi takeover.
Many on Tyneside were left fearful it could all collapse after serious complaints arrived from both Amnesty International and BeIN Sports, however Dyke is still expecting the Saudi-backed takeover to go through - despite these fresh concerns.
While it all seems on track, despite attempts to derail it, we can only hope a formal announcement arrives soon to confirm Mike Ashley is officially gone.
It's looking good, but only then can the cans be cracked open!
