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Mike Ashley is finally on the brink of flogging Newcastle United to Amanda Staveley – after taking her for a curry.

The Sports Direct tycoon is set to cash out and sell the club to the leading financier and her mystery backers in a deal worth £300million this week.

Significant progress has been made after talks in London in recent days, which included discussions over an Indian meal at a plush restaurant.

Ashley spiced up the prospect of him selling off the Toon with the face-to-face chat over a £10 Indian after the meeting was set up by media mogul Richard Desmond.

The pair met up at the Paradise restaurant in Hampstead, where chicken tikka massala costs just £9.55 and madras £7.30.

Staveley’s £250m opening offer was turned down but a new price tag looks to have been agreed.

Her PCP Investment group is increasingly optimistic about striking a deal with Chinese and Middle Eastern backers.

Ashley wants around £300m to walk away after a decade on Tyneside – without any payback clause if the club gets relegated.

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Ashley is renown for doing deals in unconventional surroundings, and Staveley is hoping it becomes an Indian takeaway.

Staveley attended the meeting with Desmond, who clearly showed his delight with a fist pump when the party left the restaurant.

Ashley was joined by his wife Linda, as they looked to bring negotiations to a close.

Finalising the deal could stretch into the January transfer window, putting some of manager Rafa Benitez’s transfer plans in jeopardy.

Ashley’s wife was also present at the meal along with key advisors.

Rafa Benitez is adamant he needs backing in January and if progress his made the new consortium could give the green light to spend even if the formalities are not done.