Profitable up the stakes

Obviously men in a hurry Steve McMahon and his employers, The Profitable Group, have whacked in a second offer for the club. With little movement having taken place so far, it is hoped this will either smoke out other interest or even be accepted to get the ball properly rolling on our pre-season. McMahon himself told the Chronicle:

'Our people have been in London all week working with lawyers and attorneys and we have made them a realistic offer. We have been pushing ahead and, make no doubt about it, the money is in place - we are for real. We certainly have the funds to go through with it.

We initially made a tentative bid to begin with, and discussions then took place. We were told to come back, and that's what we have done. There has been a formal offer and we want to get things done and dusted as quickly as possible. We are just waiting to hear - and we hope to hear something today.

I have been keeping tabs on the whole thing since Newcastle were relegated. It's just heartbreaking, and it is affecting people's lives up there. If we can give Newcastle the kiss of life then we'd love to do it.'

For the very latest Championship odds

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.