Newcastle United fans have had a difficult relationship with club owner Mike Ashley over the past 10 years.

Many supporters were delighted to learn in mid-October that the businessman has decided to sell up.

Amanda Staveley was widely reported to be interested in tabling an offer via investment company PCP Partners.

The 44-year-old Yorkshire-born businesswoman was involved in Sheikh Mansour's 2008 takeover of Manchester City, which has since transformed the North-West outfit into one of the richest Premier League clubs.

With that in mind, nobody could blame Newcastle fans for feeling like their club would rise in a similar manner, particularly when The Independent  reported in December that Staveley upped the takeover offer to £300m.

Now, though, it seems that the club are back to square one following reports that talks have collapsed.

The Guardian, along with other media outlets, are carrying a statement made by Ashley's camp to Sky Sports News, claiming that discussions over a deal have been a "waste of time".

"It is only right to let the fans know that there is no deal on the table or even under discussion with Amanda Staveley and PCP. Attempts to reach a deal have proved to be exhausting, frustrating and a complete waste of time."

It remains to be seen what the next steps will be, but it is safe to say that Newcastle fans have been left feeling frustrated.

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