Joe Kinnear could return as manager of Newcastle United.

The Guardian says Alan Shearer, who presided over the last eight games of the season, wants the job, but Toon owner Mike Ashley has been unwilling to provide the financial backing needed to meet Shearer's requirements on personal terms and transfer budget.

"Talks are ongoing and we hope to have something resolved by the end of the week," said the managing director, Derek Llambias.

Should Shearer fail to compromise and the deal fall through, Ashley is likely to turn to Joe Kinnear to serve, once again, as Newcastle's interim manager until a new owner takes over and identifies a preferred long-term appointment.

Kinnear stepped in when Kevin Keegan walked out last September but fell ill with heart problems which required a triple bypass in February. The former Wimbledon and Nottingham Forest manager is now restored to good health and could be persuaded to return on a temporary basis.