Barry Moat has slapped an offer on Mike Ashley's desk but it is below Mike Ashley's £100m asking price.

However,  Dennis Wise’s comments over the weekend made it clear the sports shop retailer is considering holding on to the club in the hope promotion back to the Premier League can be secured.

Moat has either secured increased financial backing from his investors – thought to be based in America – or Barclays have changed their mind about the size of the overdraft.

Ashley has steadfastly maintained over the summer that he will not lower his asking price.