Newcastle Dismiss Ashley Sale Rumours

Newcastle United has dismissed speculation that retail billionaire Mike Ashley
is ready to sell his controlling interest to an Icelandic consortium despite
only taking over the Premier League club in June.

Media reports had cited that Ashley, whose Sports Direct firm has endured a
tough time on the stock market of late, had held talks with Icelandic
businessmen Palmi Haraldsson and Jon Asgeir Johannesson over a £135m-plus
takeover of Newcastle.

The club however played down the claims issuing a statement that read: ‘This
is pure speculation. These stories are complete news to the club.’

Media-shy Ashley formally completed his £134.4m swoop for Newcastle in June
this year but with investors increasing concerned as to the state of his other
business interests, rumours have already begun about the billionaire offloading
the club.

Ashley reportedly ploughed another £30m into the club last week in an attempt
to address the £80m debt he inherited on his arrival and Chris Mort, the man
Ashley installed as his chairman following Freddy Shepherd’s departure, has
spoken of the new owner’s long-term plans for the Premier League outfit.