Ashley looking at fresh options

NEWCASTLE owner Mike Ashley was yesterday casting his net ever wider in the search for a buyer as several potential investors denied any interest.

Ashley’s presence in Dubai, along with managing director Derek Llambias, Dennis Wise and Tony Jimenez, has caused a flurry of speculation since he confirmed on Sunday evening that the club is for sale. However, his trip has yet to pay dividends with the Dubai Investment Group following Dubai International Capital (DIC) in insisting they have no intention of taking Newcastle off Ashley’s hands.

The denial came amid reports that Ashley had snubbed a meeting with Arab investors after being told they were prepared to offer only £200million (€254) for the club.