Mike Ashley has revealed he is in advanced talks to sell Newcastle United confirming rumours that have been circulating within St James’ Park for the last few days.

Telegraph Sport understands than non-disclosure agreements were signed last month and that at least one of the interested parties is wealthy enough to do the deal without complications in terms of the asking price.

However, the issue is clouded by the fact that Ashley denied he is in exclusive talks with one group. It is thought there are at least two bidders who have proven they are serious about buying the club and both are keen to maintain secrecy in order to get the deal one.

Ashley’s comments, though, have caught one of them by surprise and there is a suspicion it may be a negotiating tactic.

Former Chelsea chief executive Peyer Kenyon has been trying to attract investors in the USA in order to launch a takeover, but was believed to be struggling to raise the funds needed, while Telegraph Sport was told over the weekend that a Turkish consortium has shown a firm interest since the start of the season.