BREAKING: Crushing blow for NUFC as Mike Ashley confirms all of our worst fears – Devastated

Some devastating breaking news arriving in the last few moments, with it being confirmed tonight that Amanda Staveley’s proposed takeover of NUFC is now OFF, with a source close to the club confirming that Mike Ashley has walked away from the deal.

Absolutely devastating news. It is being reported that Mike Ashley had become frustrated by the time it was taking to strike a deal with Amanda Staveley and PCP Capital Partners, seeing him back away from the deal after months of talks.

Not only does this confirm that Staveley and PCP will not be taking over at St James’ Park, this could well spell the end of Rafa Benitez.

I fully expect the gaffer to stay on until the end of the season in a bit to keep us up, however he will have every right to walk away in the summer if Mike Ashley remains in charge.

It is worth mentioning that the club is up for sale, but as it’s highlighted below, ‘no acceptable bids are currently on the table’.

#nufc update: sources close to Mike Ashley suggest talks may have stalled with PCP & Amanda Staveley. Feeling it's all been a "waste of time". PCP have been contacted for response. Club remains for sale, but no acceptable bids currently on table. Latest now on @SkySportsNews. 1/2

— Pete Graves (@PeteGravesSky) January 16, 2018

#nufc say proposed takeover is OFF.

— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) January 16, 2018

#nufc sources say Mike Ashley walks away from talks with PCP Capital partners.

— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) January 16, 2018

Understand talks between Mike Ashley & Amanda Staveley have all but broken down & it is thought the NUFC owner believes there will be no sale to Staveley & PCP Capital Partners. More to follow @MailSport

— Craig Hope (@CraigHope_DM) January 16, 2018

What a blow. What a sorry state of affairs.

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