Financier Amanda Staveley has held talks with a trio of Newcastle United chiefs this week, adding fuel to the rumours a takeover bid is imminent.

The appearance of the 44-year-old at St James’ Park during the 1-1 draw with Liverpool has resulted in increased talk that the club are moving closer to new investment, report the Newcastle Chronicle.

Staveley has big business links in the Middle East and is believed to be keen to be involved in the purchase of a football club.

She is yet to hold any talks with Mike Ashley and since her appearance on Sunday there is not believed to have been any fresh contact.

However it has now emerged that Staveley did meet Ashley’s close associate Justin Barnes, managing director Lee Charnley and PR guru Keith Bishop - but club sources at United are indicating no type of deal is close at this moment in time.

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley and MD Lee Charnley (
Image:
Stu Forster)

Staveley also headed down to the tunnel after the game with corporate guests and is said to have left St James’ Park impressed with the atmosphere and set-up at the club.

Ashley is willing to listen to offers from interested parties who want either a stake in the club or a potential buyout.

But the Toon tycoon is unlikely to sell up cheaply or look for a quick deal given the huge amounts of TV money set to come Newcastle’s way in the coming weeks.