Reported 'front-runner' denies interest in buying NUFC - but Russian billionaire joins the takeover race
Two developments on the takeover situation this morning, with Turkish billionaire Murat Ulker now denying his interest in buying NUFC, whilst Russian tycoon Mikhail Prokhorov has emerged as the latest man to be 'monitoring the situation' on Tyneside according to an exclusive in the Shields Gazette.
Starting with Ulker - the chairman of huge food company Yildiz Holding - who was believed to be one of the 'front-runners' to take over from Mike Ashley according to a story in the Evening Standard yesterday.
This morning however, a spokesperson from Yildiz Holding denied his interest in the club, telling the following to BBC Sport:
"The company is not purchasing Newcastle and no discussions about the team have taken place.
"We wish them the best of luck in finding a new owner."
With that link out the way, a new name has emerged this morning in the form of Russian billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov.
An exclusive in the Shields Gazette claims that Prokhorov is looking to invest in the Premier League, and has been keeping a 'keen eye on developments on Tyneside for some time' according to the report.
Prokhorov is the current owner of NBA basketball side the Brooklyn Nets and is estimated to be worth £7billion - placing him inside the top 150 richest people in the world.
Another name to throw into the mix and one to watch perhaps. This could be a theme over the coming weeks!
