Mike Ashley Agrees Deal 'in Principle' to Sell Newcastle United to Peter Kenyon Consortium

Newcastle United fans are rightfully cautious about the news surrounding the latest attempt by Magpies owner Mike Ashley to sell the club, but they may be buoyed by a Thursday morning report claiming that a deal has been agreed 'in principle' to sell the Tyneside outfit.

While there are rumours of 'several parties' being interested in Newcastle, ex-Manchester United and Chelsea executive has been touted as the clear frontrunner to secure a deal.

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And a report from the Northern Echo now claims that Kenyon's consortium, working with Rockefeller Capital Management in the United States, has 'agreed a deal in principle' with Ashley for £300m to be paid in staggered amounts.

The news comes as a positive development for the Toon Army, especially considering that Kenyon and Ashley are believed to have a friendly relationship, and Kenyon has been granted access to the club's accounts.

However, the finer details of a potential sale still need to be hashed out, and the clock is ticking for a change of ownership to occur before the end of the January transfer window.

As such, any attempts made by manager Rafa Benitez to improve his playing staff could be seriously hampered. 

The Magpies have been linked with a move for Atlanta United playmaker Miguel Almiron in recent days, and the Echo's report also claims that Newcastle's scouts have been watching Japanese international Ritsu Doan in action with Groningen in the Eredivisie.