Newcastle mull offer over

ashley, who has just bought 41.6% of the shares from John Hall, is fresh from meetings with the board who quizzed him on his intentions for the club. It is believed he is now hours away from issuing statements to the stock market with his intent to buy the club. The board described their meeting as a 'useful and constructive discussion'.

It is believed a full takeover of the club would cost the tycoon over £133 million which is nearly £60 million more thanhe has already committed from his purchase of Hall's shares at a pound a share.

Allardyce himself says he is looking forward to the challenge whatever happens behind the scenes.