THE Singaporean group trying to buy Newcastle want Toon legend Alan Shearer as manager.
Cousins Terence and Nelson Loh head the Bellagraph Nova Group and believe they are at an advanced stage of buying out owner Mike Ashley.
Alan Shearer could be set for a sensational return to Newcastle UnitedCredit: Rex Features
The investor group on Sunday said they had “enlisted the help of” Magpies hero Shearer.
A BN Group insider claimed: “We’ve offered Alan the manager’s position, or whatever he would like to do in the club.
“He has already accepted to work with us if our takeover goes through.”
Shearer was unavailable for comment but the group said in a statement: “We are at an advanced stage of negotiation having already provided a Letter of Intent, as well as a Proof of Funds on August 10.
Shearer is Newcastle’s all-time record scorer with 206 goalsCredit: Reuters
Shearer previously took charge of Newcastle in 2009 Credit: PA:Empics Sport
“In addition to the engagement to Newcastle Football Club and community, we have enlisted the help of England captain Alan Shearer and former player Michael Chopra.
“BN Group founders declared their willingness to massively contribute to the development of the club through their solid and international structure and a combined business/sport- devoting mindset.”
Match of the Day pundit Shearer will not want to take pal Steve Bruce’s job at St James’ Park.
The club’s 206-goal all-time top scorer had an ill-fated spell in charge in 2009, with Toon relegated after his eight-game reign.
The private equity firm, based in Paris, remains in talks with Ashley and are confident of striking a deal.
They are locked in discussions over Ashley’s £340million asking price.
BN Group believe that figure is too high but the Sports Direct owner is desperate to sell after the failed Saudi Arabian bid.
The Asian finance company was founded by the Loh cousins and businesswoman Evangeline Shen.
Their website boasts of revenues of £9billion, with investments in technology, new media and healthcare.
One of its subsidiaries holds the £78m world record for the highest ever online, single jewellery transaction.
While Tyneside was still in a state of mourning following the Saudis withdrawing their bid, Chopra (below), who played for Newcastle and Sunderland, hinted at his involvement in a separate takeover.
Earlier this month, the Geordie tweeted: “Get the cans from the bin and put them back in the fridge. Watch this space.”
And last week it emerged that Chopra, 36, held meetings with the BN Group at their Paris headquarters.
Micky Quinn questions why Newcastle Saudi Arabian bidders were put under such scrutiny compared to other club’s owners
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
